BROCCOLI WITH BECHAMEL

Broccoli with Bechamel image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Yield Makes 2 cups

Number Of Ingredients 6

Coarse salt
2 broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces
1 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese, (optional)

Steps:

Prepare an ice-water bath; set aside. In medium pot, bring 2 quarts salted water to a boil; blanch broccoli until tender yet still green in color. Remove with slotted spoon to ice bath until cool; drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, melt butter in small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add flour, and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds. While whisking constantly, add milk in a steady stream, and cook until thickened and creamy, 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt, and stir in cheese, if desired. Fold broccoli into bechamel sauce.
Center 2-inch ring mold on serving plate. Fill with 1/2 cup broccoli mixture. Remove mold, and serve.