Italian > Risottos

Ground Elder and Bacon Risotto Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup ground elder leaves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet or pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with the onion and garlic mixture.
6. Pour in the white wine and stir until it has been absorbed by the rice.
7. Begin adding the chicken or vegetable broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until the broth has been absorbed by the rice before adding more.
8. Continue adding the broth and stirring until the rice is cooked al dente, about 20-25 minutes.
9. Stir in the chopped ground elder leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve hot, topped with the crispy bacon.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 800mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground elder leaves can be substituted with spinach or arugula.
- White wine can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth.

Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Substitute the bacon with pancetta or prosciutto for a different flavor.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Stir the risotto constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
- Use a good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Add a splash of cream at the end for a creamier texture.

Storage instructions:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the risotto.

Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top.

Garnishes:
Chopped parsley or chives.

Pairings:
A crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the risotto is too dry, add more broth or water to loosen it up.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the bacon thoroughly and refrigerate any leftovers promptly.

Food history:
Risotto is a traditional Italian dish that originated in northern Italy.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, salty, and earthy.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

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Taste: Savory, Rich, Smoky, Umami, Creamy