If you can’t grill the radicchio, just sear it on the stovetop in a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it is caramelized and tender.

　　

Ingredients

serves 4

　　1 cup coarse grits (see page 242)

　　Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

　　Unsalted butter

　　2 heads of radicchio, trimmed but core left intact, cut in half lengthwise

　　Extra virgin olive oil

　　1/2 teaspoon sugar

　　3/4 pound fresh mozzarella, either in small balls or cut into 4 chunks, at room temperature

　　Aged balsamic vinegar

　　Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon

　　

Step 1

Put the grits in a medium pot, whisk in 5 cups cold water, and season with salt. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cover and cook, stirring frequently and adding additional water as needed, until they are creamy and tender, 45 minutes to an hour or longer. Add butter to taste and season again with salt.

　　

Step 2

Meanwhile, prepare a hot fire in a charcoal grill.

　　

Step 3

Put the radicchio on a large plate and drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle all over with the sugar, and season generously with salt and pepper. When the flame has died down, the coals are completely covered with ash, and the grill is very hot, grill the radicchio, starting with the cut side down, until it is slightly charred on the outside and warm and starting to wilt on the interior, 2 to 3 minutes per side.

　　

Step 4

Put the mozzarella in a bowl of hot, salted water for 30 seconds to heat and then drain.

　　

Step 5

Divide the grits among four warm plates, and arrange the cheese and radicchio alongside. Drizzle with balsamic and sprinkle with sea salt.

　　Cooking in the Moment