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Risotto with Artichokes and Crispy Pancetta

17/11/2023

Risotto with artichokes and crispy pancetta is a refined and flavorful dish, and the combination of the delicate taste of artichokes with sautéed pancetta makes the dish rich and interesting. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 320 g of risotto rice (Carnaroli, Arborio, etc.)
  • 4 artichokes
  • 100 g of pancetta, cubed
  • About 1 liter of vegetable broth
  • 1 small white onion
  • 50 ml of dry white wine
  • 40 g of butter
  • Grated Parmesan to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A few chives for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. Prepare the vegetable broth and keep it warm on low heat. If you are using ready-made or cube broth, make sure it is hot when you use it.

  2. Clean the artichokes by removing the outer leaves, the tips, and the interior choke if present. Cut them into wedges and soak them in lemon water to prevent them from browning.

  3. In a large pan, sauté the pancetta in a little oil until it becomes crispy. Remove it and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.

  4. In the same pan, add half of the butter and the finely chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the drained artichokes and cook for a few minutes.

  5. Add the rice and toast it until it becomes translucent, stirring frequently. Deglaze with the white wine and let it evaporate.

  6. Add the vegetable broth one ladle at a time, waiting for the rice to absorb almost all the liquid before adding more. Stir often to promote the creaminess of the risotto.

  7. Cook the risotto for about 18 minutes or until the rice is al dente. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Remove the risotto from heat and whisk in the remaining butter and a generous handful of grated Parmesan until you achieve a creamy consistency.

  9. Serve the risotto on plates, garnish with the crispy pancetta set aside earlier, and if you like, with some chopped chives for an added touch of color and flavor.

Enjoy your meal!

Curiosity

Risotto is a classic of Italian cuisine, particularly loved for its versatility. With the addition of artichokes, it becomes a perfect spring dish. Crispy pancetta adds a touch of savoriness and crunch that pairs well with the softness of the risotto. Also, having broth and rice as a base, risotto can be customized with countless other ingredients depending on the season or personal preferences.

Risotto with Artichokes and Crispy Pancetta