Risotto alla pizzaiola

Pizzaiola risotto is a tasty variation of the classic risotto, which combines the delicacy of rice with the liveliness of the typical flavors of pizza. Here is how to prepare this Italian delight.

Ingredients

• 320 g of risotto rice (like Arborio or Carnaroli)
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 400 ml of tomato puree
• 800 ml of hot vegetable broth (may vary according to rice absorption)
• 150 g of mozzarella cut into cubes
• 50-60 g of grated Parmesan cheese
• Dried oregano to taste
• A few fresh basil leaves
• 1 clove of garlic
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 100 ml of dry white wine

Preparation

1. In a large frying pan or pot, sauté the chopped onion in extra virgin olive oil until it becomes translucent. Add the whole clove of garlic and let it brown slightly.
2. Add the rice and toast for about 2 minutes until it becomes shiny, making sure it doesn’t burn.
3. Deglaze the rice with the white wine and let it evaporate over medium-high heat.
4. Begin to add the hot vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, continuing to stir regularly to prevent the rice from sticking.
5. After about 10 minutes add the tomato puree and continue cooking, adding broth when necessary.
6. 5 minutes before the end of cooking, which in total should be 18-20 minutes, add chopped oregano and basil.
7. When the rice is cooked al dente, remove the garlic and turn off the heat. Add the diced mozzarella, Parmesan, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and stir to cream the risotto.
8. Let it rest a couple of minutes before serving.

Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper and garnish with fresh basil leaves to give additional aroma and color to the dish.

Curiosity

The term “pizzaiola” comes from the traditional preparation used to season pizza, indeed the main ingredients of this risotto are the same you would find on a classic Margherita pizza: tomato, mozzarella, and basil, with the addition of oregano to enhance the Mediterranean flavor. Pizzaiola risotto can be considered an example of how Italian cuisine is a master at reinterpreting its classics in a modern and imaginative way.