Imagine a creamy, luxurious Italian classic that whispers comfort in every single bite - welcome to Risi e Bisi, the ultimate comfort food that bridges the gap between risotto and soup. This Venetian treasure is more than just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the charming streets of Italy. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious food enthusiast, this Rice and Peas dish promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh peas
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup fresh peas, 1/2 onion (chopped), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat. Keep it warm but not boiling.
- In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the Arborio rice to the skillet with the sautéed onions. Stir well to coat the rice in the oil and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.
- Begin adding the warm vegetable broth to the rice mixture, one ladle at a time. Stir constantly and allow the rice to absorb most of the broth before adding the next ladle. This process should take about 15 minutes.
- When the rice is al dente and creamy, stir in the fresh peas. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are tender and heated through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the rice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve the Rice and Peas Risi e Bisi warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Arborio rice is crucial for achieving that signature creamy texture. Always use high-quality, short-grain rice specifically meant for risotto.
- Temperature Control is Key: Keep your broth warm but not boiling. This ensures even cooking and helps the rice absorb liquid gradually.
- Constant Stirring: Stir your rice frequently to release the starches, creating that classic creamy consistency without becoming mushy.
- Fresh Peas Matter: If possible, use fresh peas for the brightest flavor and best texture. Frozen can work in a pinch, but avoid canned.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the most authentic flavor. Pre-grated cheese lacks the depth and complexity of fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Al Dente is Perfect: The rice should have a slight bite - creamy but not soft or mushy. This takes practice, so don't be discouraged!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
