Imagine a dish so luxuriously creamy, so perfectly balanced, that it transports you straight to the sun-drenched kitchens of Italy with just one bite. Vegetarian Risi e Bisi is not just a recipe—it's a culinary experience that transforms humble ingredients into a velvety masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this traditional Italian rice dish promises to elevate your meal game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by finely chopping the onion, measuring out the rice, vegetable broth, and green peas, and having your Parmesan cheese grated.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast it gently, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to coat the grains with oil and develop a subtle nutty flavor.
- Pour in the vegetable broth gradually, starting with about 1/2 cup. Stir continuously and allow the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.
- When the rice has absorbed most of the initial broth, add the green peas and continue adding broth in small increments, stirring frequently to create a creamy consistency.
- Cook the rice until it reaches a tender but slightly al dente texture, which typically takes about 18-20 minutes. The final consistency should be loose and creamy, similar to a risotto.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Arborio rice is crucial for achieving that signature creamy texture. Don't substitute with regular rice!
- Patience is Key: Add broth gradually and stir frequently to help the rice release its starches, creating that signature risotto-like creaminess.
- Keep Your Broth Warm: Heat your vegetable broth before adding it to the rice to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
- Al Dente is Ideal: The rice should be tender but still have a slight bite. Overcooking will turn your dish mushy.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh green peas if possible, as they'll provide a sweeter, more vibrant flavor.
- Don't Skip the Resting Time: Those final 2-3 minutes of resting allow the flavors to meld and the dish to reach perfect consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
