Risotto Allo Zafferano Alla Siciliana (sicilian-style Saffron Risotto)
Risotto allo Zafferano alla Siciliana, or Sicilian-style Saffron Risotto, is a classic dish from the beautiful island of Sicily. This creamy and flavorful risotto is infused with the aromatic essence of saffron, a prized spice that adds a golden hue and a delicate floral flavor to the dish. It's a perfect representation of Sicilian cuisine, which is known for its rich and diverse flavors influenced by various cultures throughout history.
Ingredients
- Arborio rice - 1 1/2 cups
- Vegetable broth - 4 cups
- Onion, finely chopped - 1
- Butter - 4 tbsp
- Olive oil - 2 tbsp
- Saffron threads - 1/2 tsp
- White wine - 1/2 cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat.
- In a separate large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.
- Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the butter and oil.
- Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine is fully absorbed.
- Begin adding the warm vegetable broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next.
- After about 15 minutes, when the rice is almost cooked, stir in the saffron-infused water and continue adding the broth until the rice is creamy and al dente.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Let the risotto rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional 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
- 8g
- Fat
- 15g
Supplies
Large saucepan Heavy-bottomed pot Small bowl
Tools
Wooden spoon Ladle Grater
Serving suggestions
Serve the Risotto allo Zafferano alla Siciliana as a main course with a side of fresh salad and a glass of crisp white wine.
Tips & tricks
For the best results, use high-quality saffron threads to infuse the risotto with a rich and aromatic flavor.
Cost
$15