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.

Risotto Allo Zafferano Alla Siciliana (sicilian-style Saffron Risotto)

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

  1. In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat.
  3. In a separate large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.
  5. Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the butter and oil.
  6. Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine is fully absorbed.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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