Creamy Risotto with Savoy Cabbage, Speck, and Melty Fontina

Risotto with Savoy Cabbage, Speck, and Fontina

This hearty Risotto with Savoy Cabbage, Speck, and Fontina is a delightful and rich Italian dish that perfectly balances savory, creamy, and earthy flavors. The combination of tender rice, smoky speck, melty Fontina cheese, and the vibrant crunch of Savoy cabbage makes this dish perfect for a cozy dinner with friends and family.

Category: Main Course (Primi Piatti)
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Start by cleaning the vegetables. Carefully peel and chop the onion, carrot, and potato into rough chunks. Take the Savoy cabbage and separate the leaves until you reach the tender, softer inner leaves. Set aside 180g of these tender leaves for the risotto and keep the rest for the broth.

2. Make the Broth:
   In a large pot, add the leftover cabbage scraps along with the chopped onion, carrot, and potato. Fill with plenty of water, add 1 tablespoon of coarse salt, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the broth cook for at least 30 minutes, allowing the vegetables to release their flavors.

3. Prepare the Speck:
   While the broth is simmering, slice the speck into thin strips about half a centimeter wide. Place it in a large pan and cook over medium heat until the speck is crispy and golden. Once done, set it aside to drain.

4. Prepare the Rice:
   In the same pan where you cooked the speck, add the rice. Stir the rice gently until it turns translucent and slightly toasted, about 1-2 minutes.

5. Cook the Risotto:
   Begin adding the Savoy cabbage to the rice, stirring occasionally. Gradually add the hot broth, one ladle at a time, letting the rice absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process, stirring occasionally, and cook until the rice is tender and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Finish the Risotto:
   Once the rice is cooked to al dente perfection, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the Fontina cheese, which should melt into the risotto, making it wonderfully creamy. Add the crispy speck, chopped chives, and a final touch of black pepper. Lastly, swirl in the butter to give the risotto a rich, velvety finish.

7. Serve:
   Spoon the risotto onto plates, garnish with additional chives if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious risotto, perfect for a cozy meal any time of year!

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

This Risotto with Savoy Cabbage, Speck, and Fontina is a flavorful celebration of Italian comfort food. The slightly smoky speck complements the creamy Fontina cheese, while the cabbage adds texture and depth. Paired with a glass of white wine, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner.

Bon Appétit!