Asparagus and Bok-Choy Frittata
South Africa is one of the so-called New World wine countries, along with Australia, New Zealand, and the Americas, but its wines best reflect the balance of the European tradition. A South African chardonnay will make a marvelous partner for this Italian-inspired dish. When making an Italian frittata, don’t limit yourself to traditional ingredients. The Asian flavors that fill this version offer a real change of pace. Cook the eggs on top of the stove or in the oven —but be sure to use moderate heat so they don’t turn rubbery.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 3 scallions including green tops, sliced thin
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small head bok-choy (about 3/4 pound), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3/4 pound asparagus, tough ends snapped off and discarded, spears cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 9 eggs, beaten to mix
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Asian sesame oil
DIRECTIONS:
- Heat the oven to 325°F. In a medium cast-iron or ovenproof nonstick frying pan, heat the cooking oil over moderate heat. Add the scallions, ginger, and garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the bok-choy and cook, stirring, until the leaves wilt, about 2 minutes. Add the asparagus and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are almost tender, about 3 minutes more.
- Evenly distribute the vegetables in the pan and then add the eggs, pepper, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cook the frittata, without stirring, until the edges start to set, about 2 minutes. Put the frittata in the oven and bake until firm, about 25 minutes. Drizzle the sesame oil over the top. Serves 4.
- © Photo and recipe courtesy of FoodandWine.com
SEPTEMBER WINE CLUB:
BREW CRU
Chardonnay
Hemel-en-aarde Ridge, South Africa
SILKY WINE STYLE
Walker Bay, a region known for producing world-class, cool climate wines, is rapidly becoming synonymous with outstanding South African Chardonnay. Its close proximity to the ocean is ideal for the development of lovely lime notes, austere structure and lively acidity.
This well-balanced wine displays the true characteristics of a cool-climate Chardonnay. On the nose there is beautiful orange blossom, peach and mandarin with tones of raw almonds. The palate shows great finesses and has subtle hints nougat and toasty notes with a refreshing, lasting and creamy finish.
Appellation: Hemel-en-aarde Ridge, Walker Bay, South Africa
Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.2
TA: 6.6 g/l
Residual Sugar: 2.6 g/l
Aging: 9 months French oak
Critical Acclaim: Reviewed & approved by Doug Frost, Master Sommelier and Master of Wine.
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