CAULIFLOWER WITH TOASTED BREAD CRUMBS

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

2 tablespoons fine dry bread crumbs
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, halved lengthwise and sliced thin lengthwise
2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 small head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch flowerets
1/3 cup water

In a small non-stick skillet sauté bread crumbs in 1/2 tablespoon oil over moderately high heat, stirring, until fragrant and transfer to a small bowl. In skillet heat remaining tablespoon oil over moderate heat until hot but not smoking and cook onion, stirring, until golden. Add vinegar and cauliflower and sauté over moderately high heat, stirring, until cauliflower begins to turn golden. Add water and salt to taste and simmer, covered, 10 minutes, or until tender. Sprinkle cauliflower mixture with bread crumbs.

Serves 2.

Gourmet
January 1996