Spicy seafood risotto

Spicy Seafood Risotto: A Unique Culinary Experience

Risotto is an iconic dish in world cuisine, known for its creamy texture and the versatility of its ingredients. This spicy seafood risotto recipe combines the intense flavors of shrimp and squid with a hint of spice, turning each serving into a true celebration for the taste buds. Get ready to surprise your guests or treat yourself with this recipe that is both simple and impressive.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 fresh squid
- 6 large shrimp
- 5-6 cherry tomatoes
- 2 hot peppers (or more, to taste)
- 3 cubes of butter
- 150 g long-grain rice (ideal for risotto, such as Arborio or Carnaroli)
- Olive oil
- 100 ml dry white wine
- 1/2 small onion
- 2 green onions
- 50 ml liquid cream
- Shrimp broth (or concentrate)
- 15 small shallots
- 1 teaspoon Vifon chili concentrate
- 50 g grated Parmesan
- Salt and white pepper, to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the shrimp broth:
Start by cleaning the shrimp of shells and heads. These will be used to create a rich broth. Put the shells in a pot with water, add salt, and let it boil for 15-20 minutes. After the broth has boiled, strain the liquid and keep it for the risotto.

2. Preparing the seafood:
Clean and wash the squid, then cut it into thin strips. In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil and one cube of butter. Add the chopped green onion and shallots and sauté until translucent. Add the shrimp and squid and continue to sauté for a few minutes. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped hot peppers, and Vifon chili concentrate. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, then add the liquid cream. Cook for a few minutes, being careful not to overcook the squid to avoid it becoming rubbery.

3. Preparing the risotto:
In another skillet, melt one cube of butter along with olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft. Then, add the rice and stir well for 2-3 minutes, so that each grain is coated with fat and becomes slightly translucent. Add the white wine and wait for it to evaporate completely.

4. Cooking the risotto:
Start adding the shrimp broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait for the rice to absorb the liquid before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finishing the dish:
Once the risotto is ready, add the remaining two cubes of butter and the grated Parmesan to give it a perfect creaminess. Mix well to integrate all the ingredients.

6. Serving:
Serve the risotto hot, adding the seafood mixture on top. You can garnish the plate with a little paprika for a vibrant look and an extra hint of flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the seafood is fresh; this is key for a successful dish.
- You can experiment with other seafood, such as mussels or clams, to vary the recipe.
- The risotto should be creamy but not excessively wet. Adjust the amount of broth according to your preferences.
- If you want a spicier risotto, add more hot peppers or even a splash of Tabasco sauce.

Nutritional benefits:
Seafood risotto is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids from fish, and vitamins from vegetables. By adding cream and Parmesan, the dish also becomes a source of calcium and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced diet.

Ideal pairings:
This spicy risotto pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. You can also accompany it with a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use short-grain rice? It is not recommended, as long-grain rice, such as Arborio, has a higher starch content, which gives risotto that creamy texture.
- How can I make the risotto vegetarian? You can omit the seafood and use fresh vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, to add flavor.
- Can I prepare the risotto in advance? Risotto is best prepared fresh, but you can prepare the seafood mixture ahead of time and combine it with the risotto before serving.

A personal note: This spicy seafood risotto recipe reminds me of an evening spent with friends, where the rich and intense aroma of the dish brought smiles to everyone's faces. I encourage you to try it and create your own memories around the table. Enjoy!