Imagine a dish that marries the delicate warmth of cardamom with the vibrant green of fresh spinach, all nestled in a creamy, luxurious risotto that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy. This Spinach Parcels of Cardamom Risotto isn't just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that will elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary, impressing even the most discerning food lovers with its sophisticated yet approachable flavors.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by finely chopping the onion, washing the spinach, and measuring out the rice, broth, and spices.
- In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it simmering on low heat to have ready for the risotto.
- In a separate heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add Arborio rice to the onions and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the rice grains with oil and prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle ground cardamom into the rice and stir to distribute the spice evenly.
- Begin adding hot vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next.
- Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente, with a slight resistance when bitten.
- Stir in fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt into the risotto.
- Remove from heat and fold in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and achieve a creamy consistency.
- Plate the risotto, garnishing with additional Parmesan and a light dusting of cardamom if desired.
Tips
- Use authentic Arborio rice for the creamiest texture—its high starch content is key to achieving that signature risotto consistency.
- Keep your broth hot and add it gradually; this slow process is crucial for releasing the rice's starches and creating a silky finish.
- Stir constantly but gently to develop creaminess without breaking the rice grains.
- Don't rush the cooking process; risotto requires patience and attention to develop its rich, complex flavors.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the most intense cheese flavor and best melting properties.
- Let the risotto rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop and the texture to settle.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
