Braised and Gratineed Celery

1. 1

   Trim the tops of the celery and separate the stalks.

2. 2

   Lightly peel the stalks to remove the strings.

3. 3

   Cut the stalks into lengths of about 3 inches.

4. 4

   Drop into 2 to 3 quarts of rapidly boiling water and, 2 minutes after the water returns to a boil, drain and set aside.

5. 5

   Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

6. 6

   Put the onion in a saucepan with the butter and saute over medium heat until translucent but not browned.

7. 7

   Add the pancetta, stir and saute for about 1 minute.

8. 8

   Add the celery, a light sprinkling of salt and pepper and saute for 5 minutes, turning the celery from time to time.

9. 9

   Add the broth, cover the pan and cook at a gentle simmer until the celery is tender at the pricking of a fork.

10. 10

    Arrange the cooked celery in a baking dish with the inner sides of the stalks facing up.

11. 11

    Spoon the sauteed onion and pancetta over the celery, then add the grated cheese.

12. 12

    Place the dish on the uppermost rack of the oven and bake for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese has formed a slight crust.

13. 13

    Allow to settle for a few minutes, then serve.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.