Risotto with bacon and leek

Risotto with Bacon and Leek: A Savory Culinary Experience

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Journey into the world of risotto

Risotto is a classic Italian dish, famous for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This bacon and leek risotto recipe brings a modern and delicious twist, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. The crispy bacon perfectly complements the sweetness of the leek, while the risotto rice becomes an ideal base for these flavors. This recipe is not only simple but also an excellent way to impress guests or treat yourself.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- 200 g of bacon or kaiser, sliced very thin
- 2 leeks, well washed and sliced into rounds
- 250 g risotto rice (Arborio or Carnaroli are the best choices)
- 700 ml chicken broth (you can use a Knorr chicken cube dissolved in hot water)
- 175 g frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons of cream cheese (like Philadelphia)
- Grated zest of one lemon (for an extra touch of freshness)

Step by step: Preparing the risotto

1. Preparing the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This step is essential as the risotto will be partially cooked in the oven, giving it a unique texture and even cooking.

2. Sautéing the bacon: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced bacon or kaiser and sauté for about 2 minutes until crispy and fragrant. This process not only adds texture but also deep flavor to the dish.

3. Adding the leek: Now, add the sliced leek. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and slightly translucent. Its delicate aroma will blend perfectly with that of the bacon, creating a delicious base for the risotto.

4. Including the rice: Next, add the risotto rice to the pot. Stir for a minute to allow the rice to absorb the flavors from the pot and become slightly translucent. This is a crucial step in preparing the risotto as it helps develop the characteristic creamy texture.

5. Adding the broth: At this point, pour the hot chicken broth over the rice and stir gently. Once the liquid has been added, transfer the pot to the preheated oven and let it bake for 20 minutes. This oven cooking method ensures even cooking, releasing all the flavors.

6. Including the peas: After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the oven and add the frozen peas. Stir gently to incorporate, then return the dish to the oven for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through.

7. Finishing the risotto: Finally, take the risotto out of the oven and add the cream cheese. Stir well to achieve a creamy consistency, then garnish with the grated lemon zest. This will provide a pleasant contrast and a note of freshness.

Serving suggestions

The bacon and leek risotto is delicious served warm alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. You can also pair this dish with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors.

Variations and practical tips

- Vary the ingredients: You can replace the bacon with ham or add mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Additionally, adding herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor.
- Perfect texture: Make sure the rice is of high quality, preferably one specifically for risotto. It has a higher starch content, which gives it creaminess.
- Frequently asked questions:
- *Why use chicken broth?* Chicken broth adds rich flavor to the risotto. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- *Can I use regular rice?* It is recommended to use rice specifically for risotto, as it absorbs liquid better and becomes creamier.
- Nutritional benefits: This recipe provides a good source of protein from the bacon and cheese, while the leek and peas contribute important fiber and vitamins.

Estimated calories per serving: 550 kcal.

The bacon and leek risotto is not just a tasty dish but also a wonderful way to explore the art of cooking. With every bite, you will feel how the flavors intertwine, offering you a memorable culinary experience. So embrace this simple recipe and treat yourself to an extraordinary risotto!