Braised Endives with Orange

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Grate 1/2 teaspoon zest from orange, then squeeze juice. Set aside.

   Step 2

   Cut out a round of parchment paper to fit just inside a 12-inch heavy skillet and butter one side of parchment.

   Step 3

   Trim end of each endive and halve lengthwise. Arrange, cut sides down, in 1 layer in 12-inch skillet. Add broth, zest, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons butter, cut into bits. Cover endives with parchment, buttered side down. Simmer until tender and liquid is reduced to about 1/4 cup, 20 to 25 minutes.

   Step 4

   Preheat broiler.

   Step 5

   While endives braise, melt remaining 3 tablespoons butter. Stir together with bread crumbs, five-spice powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

   Step 6

   Add cream to endives and cook, uncovered, over medium heat, swirling, until thickened, 1 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and swirl in 1 tablespoon orange juice. Arrange endives cut sides up with sauce in a lightly buttered 1 1/2- to 2-quarts shallow baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with crumbs and broil 4 to 6 inches from heat until golden brown, about 2 minutes.