Broccoflower and Toasted Country Bread with Bagna Cauda

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 450°F. Prepare an ice bath; set aside. Fill a stockpot with 1 inch water, and bring to a boil. Place the broccoflower in a steamer insert; sprinkle with salt. Cover tightly, and steam until just tender when pierced with a paring knife, about 10 minutes. Transfer to the ice bath; drain, and pat dry.

   Step 2

   Arrange the slices of bread on a baking sheet; toast until the edges are brown, 10 to 12 minutes. Turn; toast until the edges of the other side are brown, about 3 minutes. Serve with bagna cauda and broccoflower.

2. Bagna Cauda

   Step 3

   Melt the butter in a small sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic, and cook until softened but not browned, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the anchovies and oil, and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is softened and lightly browned, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat; let cool slightly.

   Step 4

   Transfer the mixture to the jar of a blender, and add the milk; puree until thick and smooth, about 2 minutes. Transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve, preferably overnight and up to 4 days.