Minted braised Little Gems
Little Gem's a miniature, crisper and sweeter version of Cos. It retains a bit of crunch when braised, but gains a whole new nutty flavour. If you throw a handul of frozen peas or broad beans in at the last minute and eat this with rice, pearl barley or spelt, it becomes a delectable and healthy vegetarian dinner. It's is also good served with lamb.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar
- ½ tbsp white wine vinegar
- 2 Little Gem lettuce
- 2 sprigs of fresh mint, leaves shredded
- 50ml chicken or vegetable stock, or use white wine
- salt and pepper
Method
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Step 1
Preheat oven to 180°C/Gas 4.
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Step 2
Put the sugar, vinegar and 1 tablespoon of water in a small pan. Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat.
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Step 3
Remove and discard any damaged outer leaves from the lettuce. Place the lettuce in an ovenproof dish with the half the mint, stock and sugar/vinegar syrup and season well. Cover and cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the lettuces are tender. Scatter over the remaining mint to serve.