Vibrant Lemony Risotto (Impression)

Slow-cooked arborio rice with tender peas, cheesy notes of pecorino, and refreshing mint creates a comforting yet classy Italian meal.

# Liste des ingrédients:

→ Base

01 - 3 tablespoons olive oil, split use
02 - 4 cups warmed chicken stock or vegetable broth
03 - 2 shallots, 1 leek, or 1 white onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 roughly chopped garlic cloves
05 - 1/2 cup dry white wine or a mix of water and a teaspoon of lemon juice
06 - 1 cup Arborio rice, uncooked

→ Peas and Cheese

07 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
08 - 2 cups frozen or blanched fresh peas

→ Aromatics and Garnish

09 - Salt and pepper, adjusted to taste
10 - Packed 1/4 cup sliced fresh mint
11 - One lemon's zest
12 - Drizzle of truffle oil for finishing

→ Optional Additions

13 - Microgreens as topping
14 - Urfa Biber or Aleppo chili flakes
15 - Pan-seared fish or scallops
16 - Sautéed mushrooms
17 - 2 to 3 tablespoons diced Spanish chorizo for a smoky twist

# Étapes de préparation:

01 - In a medium-sized pot, gently heat 4 cups of broth until it's warm but not bubbling.
02 - In a Dutch oven or heavy pot, start heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil on medium-low. Toss in garlic and shallots, then cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes, while stirring.
03 - Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir for a minute to coat, letting the grains turn slightly see-through on the edges.
04 - Pour in the white wine to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom. Simmer until almost fully absorbed.
05 - Pour in one cup of the hot broth. Stir every 45 seconds or so, letting the rice soak it up over about 5 minutes on medium-low heat.
06 - Gradually add the broth, one cup at a time. Let the liquid soak in before adding more. Stir often for about 20 minutes until the rice is creamy but still firm.
07 - If you're using fresh peas, boil them in salted water for 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside. Skip if you're using frozen ones.
08 - Combine 1/2 cup blanched peas with 1/2 cup water and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a blender. Purée until silky. Toss in a handful of spinach for a brighter green and blend, adding more water if needed.
09 - When the rice is done, gently fold in the grated cheese, lemon zest, pea purée, blanched peas, and most of the mint. Add salt and pepper to your taste.
10 - Taste the dish and tweak with more lemon, salt, or pepper. If you'd like a kick, sprinkle in chili flakes.
11 - Scoop the risotto into bowls, garnish with the leftover mint, and finish with a drizzle of truffle oil.

# Informations complémentaires:

01 - For smoky notes, cook 2-3 tablespoons diced Spanish chorizo with the aromatics.
02 - Risotto should stay creamy—if it gets too thick, stir in extra warm broth.
03 - Keep your broth heated so you don't cool down the risotto while cooking.