Risotto with Apples and Speck – A Delightful Twist on Traditional Risotto
Welcome to Love With Recipes! This Risotto with Apples and Speck is a deliciously savory yet subtly sweet twist on traditional Italian risotto. The combination of tender Carnaroli rice, the smoky richness of speck, and the fresh, slightly tart flavor of apples is a fantastic way to bring the warmth of autumn into your kitchen, no matter the season. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this risotto is a culinary treat that balances both richness and freshness. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this delightful dish at home!
Servings: 4
Category: First Courses (Primi Piatti)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients for Risotto with Apples and Speck
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Carnaroli rice | 320g |
| Golden apples | 2 |
| Speck (smoked ham) | 120g |
| Shallot (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Vegetable broth (warm) | q.b. (to taste) |
| Dry white wine | 100ml |
| Butter | 50g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (grated) | 50g |
| Freshly ground black pepper | q.b. (to taste) |
| Half a lemon (for acidulated water) | ½ |
| Fresh rosemary (for garnish) | q.b. (to taste) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~460 kcal |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 63g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 380mg |
| Sugars | 6g |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Risotto with Apples and Speck
Step 1: Preparing the Apples
Start by preparing the apples. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into quarters and slice them into small pieces. To prevent them from browning, prepare a bowl of water with a squeeze of lemon juice and immerse the apple slices in the water as you cut them. This will help preserve their freshness and vibrant color.
Step 2: Preparing the Speck and Shallot
Next, finely chop the speck into small cubes or strips, depending on your preference. Set this aside. In a large pan, heat a small drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté it gently until it softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally, making sure the shallot doesn’t brown—add a splash of warm vegetable broth if needed to keep it from sticking.
Step 3: Toasting the Rice
Once the shallot has softened, add the Carnaroli rice to the pan. Stir the rice constantly to coat each grain with the shallot-infused oil. Let the rice toast slightly for 1-2 minutes. Toasting the rice helps to lock in the starch and enhance the creamy texture of the risotto.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the dry white wine and allow it to evaporate completely, stirring occasionally. This process will help to deglaze the pan and infuse the rice with the subtle tanginess of the wine. Once the alcohol has evaporated, it’s time to start adding the broth.
Step 5: Adding the Broth
Gradually ladle in the warm vegetable broth, about half a cup at a time, ensuring that the rice absorbs the liquid before adding more. Continue this process, stirring constantly, for about 18-20 minutes. The key to a perfect risotto is patience—let the rice absorb the liquid slowly to release its starch, creating that signature creamy texture.
Step 6: Adding Speck and Apples
When the rice is just about al dente (tender yet slightly firm to the bite), stir in the chopped speck and apple slices. Season the risotto with freshly ground black pepper to your taste. The speck will add a delightful smokiness, while the apples will offer a sweet contrast, making each bite an exciting combination of flavors.
Step 7: Mantecatura – Creamy Finish
Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Add the butter and grated Parmigiano Reggiano DOP. Stir the risotto vigorously to combine the butter and cheese into the rice, creating a creamy, luxurious texture. Cover the pan with a lid and let the risotto sit for about 1 minute to allow the butter to fully melt.
Step 8: Final Touches and Garnishing
After the risotto has rested, gently stir it one more time. If needed, adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper. Transfer the risotto to serving plates, and for the final touch, garnish with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary to add an aromatic finish to the dish. The rosemary will complement the smokiness of the speck and the sweetness of the apples.
Tips for Perfect Risotto:
- Broth Temperature: Always use warm broth when making risotto. Cold broth can shock the rice and result in uneven cooking.
- Choose the Right Rice: Carnaroli rice is ideal for risotto as it has a high starch content, which gives the dish its signature creamy texture.
- Stir Constantly: While you don’t need to stir constantly, regular stirring helps release the rice’s starch, making the dish creamy and smooth.
- Finish Off with Cheese and Butter: The process of mantecatura (mixing in butter and cheese) is crucial for creating the creamy, rich texture that’s the hallmark of a great risotto.
- Apple Choice: Golden apples are perfect for this dish as they are sweet and firm, maintaining their texture when cooked. You can also experiment with other varieties for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
This risotto pairs beautifully with a light salad of mixed greens, perhaps dressed with a light balsamic vinaigrette. You could also serve it alongside a simple roasted chicken or grilled vegetables for a more complete meal. If you want to impress your guests even further, accompany the dish with a glass of dry white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay to complement the flavors of the speck and apples.
Why You’ll Love This Risotto with Apples and Speck
This dish is not just a recipe—it’s an experience. The delicate balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors combined with the creamy texture of risotto is simply irresistible. It’s a perfect dish for cooler evenings when you’re craving something comforting but with a touch of sophistication. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, Risotto with Apples and Speck is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
FAQs About Risotto with Apples and Speck
Can I make this risotto in advance?
Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat it with a little extra broth to regain the creamy texture. However, the rice will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so it’s recommended to serve it immediately after preparing.
What other types of meat can I use instead of speck?
If you’re not a fan of speck, you can substitute it with pancetta, prosciutto, or even bacon for a similar smoky and savory flavor.
Can I make this risotto vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the speck and substitute the vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly version of the broth. You could also add mushrooms or roasted vegetables for added depth of flavor.
Enjoy preparing and savoring this delightful dish! Let us know how it turned out, and don’t forget to share your photos and tips with us on Love With Recipes!
