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Asparagus and Pancetta Risotto

17/11/2023

Here is how to prepare a delicious asparagus and pancetta risotto, full of flavor and with an all-Italian touch.

Ingredients

  • 350 g of risotto rice (such as Arborio or Carnaroli)
  • 500 g of asparagus
  • 150 g of diced pancetta
  • 1 liter of vegetable broth (or chicken, if you prefer)
  • 1 small onion
  • 1 glass of white wine
  • 50 g of butter
  • 100 g of grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Start by cleaning the asparagus, removing the hardest part of the stem. Cut them into pieces, keeping the tips aside. Cook the asparagus in boiling salted water for about 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, sauté the finely chopped onion with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. When the onion becomes transparent, add the diced pancetta and let it brown until it becomes crispy.
  3. At this point, add the rice to the pot and toast it for a few minutes, stirring continuously, until it becomes translucent.
  4. Deglaze with the white wine and let the alcohol evaporate over medium heat, continuing to stir.
  5. Add the asparagus except for the tips, then start adding the hot broth, a ladle at a time, waiting for the liquid to be absorbed by the rice before adding the next.
  6. About halfway through the rice’s cooking time, add the asparagus tips to cook with the risotto.
  7. When the rice is almost al dente, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Then, remove the pot from the heat and cream the risotto with the cold butter cut into pieces and the grated Parmesan, stirring vigorously.
  8. Let the risotto rest for a minute before serving.

The risotto should be “all’onda,” which means creamy and not too dry. Serve it warm, with an additional sprinkle of Parmesan if you wish.

Curiosity

The asparagus risotto is a spring dish when asparagus is in season and at its best flavor. Pancetta adds a smoked flavor that perfectly matches the sweetness of the asparagus. This recipe is a classic example of how Italian cuisine can enhance seasonal ingredients with a touch of richness and flavor, thanks to products like pancetta and Parmesan.

Asparagus and Pancetta Risotto