CHARGRILLED LETTUCE AND GOOSEBERRIES WITH POPCORN
A hot griddle or barbecue can transform an otherwise tired lettuce into something remarkably appetising. The leaves sweeten as they cook, complementing the bitterness of the burnt edges and the whole thing becomes quite harmonious. Choose underripe gooseberries for this salad, as they will hold their shape better and introduce a lip-smackingly sour element. The popcorn in this dish acts like little croutons, soaking up the sour dressing while also adding a unique texture.
Preparation 15 minutes Cooking about 10 minutes Serves 6 as a generous side dish or starter
100G UNDER-RIPE GOOSEBERRIES
3 LITTLE GEM LETTUCES (OR RADICCHIO), CUT INTO WEDGES
COCONUT OIL OR ORGANIC RAPESEED OIL
10G POPCORN KERNELS
4 FRONDS OF FENNEL, CARROT OR DILL, LEAVES PICKED, STALKS FINELY CHOPPED
1 TBSP MAPLE SYRUP, OR OTHER SWEETENER
EXTRA-VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
EDIBLE FLOWERS TO DECORATE, OPTIONAL
1 Either light a charcoal barbecue and allow the coals to go white hot, then cool down slightly, or heat a griddle pan over a high heat. If using a barbecue, push the gooseberries onto a skewer and grill them on either side for 1 minute or until they take on a little colour. If using a griddle, sear the gooseberries all over and then remove from the pan and set aside.
2 Place the little gem (or radicchio) wedges on the barbecue or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until charred but still raw.
3 Heat a glug of coconut or rapeseed oil in a small saucepan with a lid over a high heat. Drop in a couple of popcorn kernels, cover with a lid and wait for one to pop. Once you hear it, add the rest of the popcorn and cover. Give the pan a shake and wait for the rest to pop. When the noise has just about stopped, remove the pan from heat and pour the popcorn into a bowl.
4 Arrange the charred gem (or radicchio) over the base of a serving plate, scatter with the popcorn and gooseberries, and sprinkle over the leaves. Finish with a drizzle of sweet syrup, extra-virgin olive oil and edible flowers, if you wish.