Creamy Savoy Cabbage Risotto with Parmesan

Risotto alla Verza (Savoy Cabbage Risotto)

Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

This Risotto alla Verza is a delightful Italian dish that pairs the creamy richness of risotto with the tender, earthy flavor of savoy cabbage, creating a hearty yet light meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish brings comfort and nutrition to your table. Here’s how to make it from scratch!

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Savoy Cabbage
Start by preparing the savoy cabbage, which is the star of this dish. Begin by removing the outer, tougher leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into quarters and then slice it into strips about 2 cm wide. Place these cabbage strips into a colander and rinse them under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Once rinsed, set the cabbage aside.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Cabbage
In a large frying pan, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots to the pan and sauté them gently, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. This will take about 3-4 minutes. Once the shallots are ready, add the sliced cabbage to the pan. Stir occasionally, allowing the cabbage to cook down and soften for around 10-12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Toast the Rice
While the cabbage is cooking, heat another pan over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Once the oil is hot, pour in the Carnaroli rice and toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Toasting the rice helps the grains absorb the liquid and gives the risotto a slightly nutty flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine
Once the rice is toasted, pour in the white wine and allow it to evaporate completely. This step enhances the flavor and provides a subtle acidity to balance the richness of the dish.

Step 5: Cook the Risotto
Next, transfer the toasted rice to the pan with the cabbage. Stir to combine the rice with the cabbage, making sure the grains are well coated. Begin adding the hot vegetable broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently to allow the rice to absorb the liquid. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more broth. Continue this process until the rice is tender but still al dente, which will take about 18-20 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on the rice and add more broth as necessary.

Step 6: Finish the Risotto
When the rice is cooked to your desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the butter and grated Parmigiano Reggiano to create a creamy, luscious texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the risotto immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Garnish with a little extra Parmigiano Reggiano, if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish as the perfect centerpiece of your meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This Risotto alla Verza is a delightful combination of creamy risotto, savory cabbage, and rich Parmigiano. The slight sweetness of the cabbage contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese and the depth of the broth, creating a memorable dish. Whether you are enjoying it on a chilly evening or preparing a comforting meal for guests, this dish is sure to be a hit!