Creamy Pea Risotto

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) dry white wine 1 cup (240ml) dry white wine
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups (300g) sweet peas 2 cups (300g) sweet peas
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter 2 tablespoons (30g) butter
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 65g, 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat until simmering.
2. 2.
   In a separate large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir well to coat the grains with the butter.
4. 4.
   Pour in the white wine and cook until it has evaporated, stirring constantly.
5. 5.
   Begin adding the simmering vegetable broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
6. 6.
   Continue this process for about 20 minutes or until the rice is al dente, tender but still firm to the bite.
7. 7.
   Stir in the sweet peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.
8. 8.
   Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9.
   Let the risotto rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Arborio rice — Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve a creamier texture.
• Sweet peas — If using frozen peas, thaw them before adding to the risotto to ensure even cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• Stir the risotto constantly while adding the broth to ensure a creamy consistency.
• Use a good quality vegetable broth for enhanced flavor.
• For a touch of freshness, garnish the risotto with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley before serving.
• Experiment with different variations by adding cooked pancetta or sautéed mushrooms for additional depth of flavor.
• Leftover risotto can be transformed into delicious arancini (risotto balls) by shaping them, coating in breadcrumbs, and frying until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Creamy Pea Risotto hot in individual bowls. For an elegant touch, garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, mold the risotto into a round shape using a small bowl or ramekin. Carefully invert it onto the serving plate and garnish with a few whole peas and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Drizzle some olive oil around the plate for an artistic touch.