Rice Ring Stuffed with Eggplant: A Delicious Twist on Risotto
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
This Rice Ring Stuffed with Eggplant is a delightful, savory dish that combines the creamy richness of risotto with crispy, golden eggplant and melted cheese, making it a perfect main course for family gatherings or special occasions. The combination of fresh basil, the delicate flavor of Caciocavallo cheese, and the tangy tomato sauce creates a mouthwatering experience, all nestled in a perfectly baked rice ring. Let’s dive into the detailed preparation of this fantastic dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arborio rice | 540g |
| Round eggplants | 450g |
| Tomato passata | 520g |
| Water | 700g |
| Caciocavallo cheese (divided) | 230g |
| Grana Padano DOP | 120g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Bread crumbs | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | To taste |
| Fresh basil | A handful |
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Risotto
Start by making the risotto. In a large saucepan, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil and add the Arborio rice. Stir the rice in the hot oil for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly toasted. Add the tomato passata, season with salt and pepper, and then pour in 300 grams of water. Stir the mixture, cover, and let it simmer on low heat for 25 to 30 minutes. Check the rice every so often, adding the remaining water as needed to ensure the rice is tender and creamy. Once the rice is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat. Stir in the grated Grana Padano cheese for added richness and flavor. Let the risotto cool in a bowl for about an hour at room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Eggplants
While the risotto cools, prepare the eggplants. Wash and trim the eggplants, then slice them into 5mm thick rounds using a mandolin for even slices. Heat sunflower oil in a deep frying pan to about 170°C (338°F). Once the oil is hot, fry the eggplant slices in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fried eggplants from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Assemble the Rice Ring
After the risotto has cooled, it’s time to assemble the rice ring. Grease a ring mold with a little olive oil and sprinkle with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking. Layer the bottom of the mold with half of the cooked risotto. Add a layer of the fried eggplant slices, then scatter some cubed Caciocavallo cheese over the eggplant. Cover with the remaining risotto and gently press down with the back of a spoon to compact the mixture. This will help hold the layers together as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake the Rice Ring
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) in static mode. Place the rice ring mold in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy. After baking, remove the rice ring from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to remove from the mold.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the rice ring has rested, carefully invert it onto a serving platter. Grate the remaining 30g of Caciocavallo cheese over the top and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with a few basil leaves for a fragrant, fresh finish. Serve your Rice Ring Stuffed with Eggplant warm, and enjoy the incredible flavors of this comforting and delicious dish.
Tips for Success:
- Crispy Eggplant: For extra crispy eggplant, you can lightly salt the slices before frying and let them sit for 15 minutes. This helps draw out moisture and results in a crispier texture when fried.
- Rice Consistency: Keep an eye on the risotto’s texture while cooking. It should be creamy but not soupy, so adjust the water as needed.
- Cheese Choices: If you can’t find Caciocavallo, try using mozzarella or provolone for a similar melt and flavor profile.
This Rice Ring Stuffed with Eggplant will surely become a family favorite, combining simple ingredients with a touch of elegance. Serve it as the centerpiece of a special dinner or as a unique dish for a festive gathering. Enjoy the balance of flavors in every bite!
