Description
This dish is a classic Italian-style risotto infused with seafood flavors. The arborio rice is slowly cooked in stock, allowing it to absorb all the flavors while becoming creamy. Prawns add a rich, slightly sweet taste, while peas provide freshness and a pop of color. The combination of garlic, white wine, and Parmesan cheese enhances the dish, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- Arborio rice (300g) – The essential ingredient for a creamy risotto.
- Raw prawns (200g, peeled and deveined) – Adds seafood flavor and protein.
- Peas (150g, fresh or frozen) – Bring sweetness and freshness to the dish.
- Chicken or vegetable stock (1 liter, warm) – Provides a flavorful cooking base.
- White wine (125ml) – Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Parmesan cheese (50g, grated) – Adds richness and umami.
- Shallot (1, finely chopped) – A milder alternative to onions, giving a subtle sweetness.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced) – Infuses aromatic flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp) – Used for sautéing the aromatics.
- Butter (25g) – Helps create a silky, creamy texture.
- Lemon zest (1 tsp) – Brightens up the dish with a hint of citrus.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Balances the flavors.
Instructions
- Sauté the shallots and garlic – Heat olive oil in a large pan, add shallots and garlic and cook until softened.
- Toast the rice – Stir in the arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes until slightly translucent.
- Deglaze with white wine – Pour in the wine, stirring continuously until it evaporates.
- Add the stock gradually – Ladle in warm stock one cup at a time, stirring until absorbed before adding more.
- Cook the risotto – Repeat the process, stirring constantly, for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Add prawns and peas – Stir in prawns and peas, cooking for 3-4 minutes until prawns turn pink.
- Finish with Parmesan and butter – Remove from heat, mix in grated Parmesan, butter, and lemon zest.
- Season and serve – Taste, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.