Cuttlefish and Tomato Risotto

Cuttlefish and tomato risotto is a dish that combines the flavors of the sea with the fresh taste of tomato, a variation on the classic seafood risotto with a Mediterranean twist. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 320 g of risotto rice (such as arborio, carnaroli, or vialone nano)
  • 400 g of cleaned cuttlefish
  • 400 g of ripe, peeled, and chopped tomatoes (or tomato puree)
  • 1 small onion
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • 1 glass of dry white wine
  • Approximately 1 liter of vegetable or fish stock
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Clean the cuttlefish by removing the skin and tentacles, and cut them into strips or pieces.
  2. Chop the onion and garlic. In a large pan or casserole, sauté the onion and garlic in extra virgin olive oil until they become translucent.
  3. Add the cuttlefish and let them sauté for a few minutes, then deglaze with the white wine. Allow the alcohol to evaporate.
  4. Mix in the chopped peeled tomatoes and let everything cook for a few minutes.
  5. Add the rice and toast it slightly, stirring to flavor the grains.
  6. Begin to add the hot stock, a little at a time, continuing to stir to prevent the rice from sticking. Add more stock each time the previous liquid has been absorbed by the rice.
  7. Cook the rice until done (about 18-20 minutes), ensuring it remains al dente.
  8. At the end of cooking, season with salt and pepper, and cream the risotto with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and chopped fresh parsley.
  9. Let the risotto rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Curiosity

Cuttlefish and tomato risotto is a typically summer dish, often found in coastal restaurants. While some versions include the addition of mussels or other seafood, this recipe focuses on the sweet and slightly briny flavor of the cuttlefish, balanced by the fresh acidity of the tomato. Furthermore, it is important to remember not to wash the rice before cooking, to keep the starch that will help give the dish the right creaminess.

I hope you enjoy this dish and that it brings you a taste of the Italian sea!