Recipes
Name of the recipe - Saffron Risotto
with Asparagus and Zucchini
 This
dish is a derivative of the delectable Mediterranean variety.
Arborio is the standard variety of risotto found today. However,
there are others available in specialty stores. We urge you to
try them all. This family of rice is famous for its creamy
texture and will absorb many times its weight in water and the
unctuous quality can be a great comfort!
A Tip: When preparing risotto, do not wash the rice
beforehand.Serves 4 as a main course
Ingredients
Saffron Risotto with Asparagus and Zucchini
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2 tablespoons ghee
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Pinch of saffron
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1 1/2 cups of Arborio
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5 1/4 cups of warm water
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1 large zucchini
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1/2 pound of asparagus (about 12 medium
spears)
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1/2 yellow onion (optional)
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1 tsp. lemon pepper seasoning
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1/2 lemon
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Salt
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Fresh ground pepper
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Fresh cilantro for garnish
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Fresh ground Pecorino or Parmesan cheese
(optional)
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Method of Preparation
Melt ghee in a medium stockpot. Bring to a medium high heat,
careful not to burn. Sauté finely chopped onion over medium
high heat until golden. Stir in the saffron and the Arborio.
Bring the water to a boil on the stove or in a kettle and set
aside. Sauté above ingredients for a few seconds, then add 1/4
cup water to slow cooking. Add cubed zucchini and chopped
asparagus, the lemon pepper and sauté lightly, mixing the
contents of the pot well. Add 3 cups of water and bring to a
boil. Cover and reduce heat to a medium simmer. Add remaining 2
cups of warm water, 1/4 quarter cup at a time, stirring
frequently as the rice mixture absorbs the liquid. Stir in the
juice of the lemon and 1/2 tsp. of salt. The absorption time is
approximately 25 minutes, which may vary slightly according to
cooking temperature. After the liquid is integrated and the dish
is creamy as a good risotto should be, turn off the stove and
allow the dish to set covered for five minutes. Add salt and
fresh ground pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped
cilantro. Serve with ground Pecorino or Parmesan on the side
which can be sprinkled liberally over the top. Enjoy!
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