Recipe: Tomato Risotto (Risotto al Pomodoro)
Category: First Courses
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carnaroli Rice | 400g |
| Canned Cherry Tomatoes | 400g |
| Tomato Passata | 2 tablespoons |
| Vegetable Broth | 1 liter |
| Yellow Onion | 1 |
| Grana Padano DOP (grated) | 40g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Butter | 20g |
| Fresh Basil (chopped) | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~500 kcal |
| Protein | ~10g |
| Carbohydrates | ~70g |
| Fat | ~18g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~500mg |
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by finely chopping the onion. Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook gently, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until it becomes soft and translucent. The goal here is to infuse the oil with the sweet flavor of the onion without browning it.
2. Deglaze the Onion:
Once the onion has softened, add a ladle of vegetable broth to the pot. Allow it to simmer for a few moments, letting the flavors meld and the broth evaporate slightly. This step helps to lift any caramelized onion bits off the bottom of the pot, contributing to the overall flavor of the dish.
3. Add Tomatoes:
Stir in the canned cherry tomatoes (be sure to crush them with a spoon if you prefer a smoother texture). To balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes, add about one teaspoon of sugar and mix well. This will round out the tomatoβs sharpness and create a more balanced flavor profile. Add another ladle of vegetable broth to help the tomatoes break down and create a juicy sauce base for the risotto.
4. Incorporate Passata:
Now, for a smoother consistency, add two tablespoons of tomato passata. This step enhances the richness of the tomato base and creates a velvety texture that will coat the rice beautifully. Stir to combine, ensuring the passata is evenly distributed through the mixture.
5. Add the Rice:
Stir in the Carnaroli rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the flavorful tomato sauce. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the tomato and oil. This will help the rice achieve that perfect al dente texture when itβs finished cooking.
6. Cook the Risotto:
Begin adding the hot vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, to the rice. Stir frequently, allowing each addition of broth to be absorbed before adding more. This gradual addition of liquid helps the rice release its starch, creating that creamy consistency risotto is known for. Continue this process for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice is cooked through but still al dente.
7. Final Flavor Adjustments:
As the risotto nears completion, taste it and adjust the seasoning. Add salt as needed, depending on the intensity of the broth you used. Stir in the fresh basil, either whole leaves or chopped, depending on your preference. The basil will add a fresh, herbal note that complements the rich tomato sauce beautifully.
8. Mantecatura (Creamy Finish):
Remove the pot from the heat once the rice is cooked to your liking. Stir in the butter, which will give the risotto a luxurious, velvety finish. Then, fold in the freshly grated Grana Padano cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the risotto, enriching the flavor and adding a subtle nutty depth.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the risotto onto warm plates and garnish with extra basil if desired. The final dish should have a rich, creamy consistency with vibrant bursts of tomato flavor, perfectly balanced by the umami of the cheese and the aromatic basil.
Tips and Variations:
- Rice Substitution: While Carnaroli rice is the traditional choice for risotto due to its high starch content, you can also use Arborio rice for a similar creamy texture.
- Add Vegetables: For a heartier dish, you can add sautΓ©ed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just stir them in along with the rice.
- Make it Vegan: Omit the butter and use a plant-based alternative. You can also swap the Grana Padano with a vegan cheese to keep the dish dairy-free.
This tomato risotto is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the simplicity of fresh tomatoes with the creamy richness of risotto. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side to a more elaborate main course, itβs sure to be a hit at your table!
