Kūmara and Kiwi Bacon Risotto (Whakarite Parāoa)

Whakarite Parāoa, or Kūmara and Kiwi Bacon Risotto, is a delicious and hearty dish from New Zealand that combines the sweetness of kūmara (sweet potato) with the savory flavors of bacon and kiwi. This creamy risotto is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Kūmara and Kiwi Bacon Risotto (Whakarite Parāoa)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup arborio rice
  • 2 cups diced kūmara
  • 6 slices of bacon, diced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 kiwi fruit, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent.
  3. Add the arborio rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the bacon fat, onion, and garlic.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of the broth and stir the rice constantly until the liquid is absorbed. Continue adding the broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly, until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 20-25 minutes.
  5. Stir in the diced kūmara and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the kūmara is tender.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the diced kiwi fruit, cooked bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve the Whakarite Parāoa hot, garnished with additional diced kiwi fruit and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
12g
Fat
14g

Supplies

Large pot Stirring spoon Knife Cutting board

Tools

Cooking pot Stove

Serving suggestions

Serve the Whakarite Parāoa with a side of fresh salad and a glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Cost

$15