New Orleans Food Questions And Comments

Asparagus Risotto

On my first visit to Italy, we were served risotto with every meal. My favorite versions were those made with green vegetables. Every time I see asparagus in the store, risotto crosses my mind.

The critical ingredient is Arborio rice, a variety now widely available even in supermarkets. It's extra starchy and creates the texture you need. I would also highly recommend using either Parmigiano Reggiano or Grana Padano cheese. Both are expensive, but intense in flavor so that you don't need to use as much.

1 lb. fresh asparagus
1/2 stick butter
2 green onions, sliced thin
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
3 cups Arborio rice
5 cups vegetable or chicken stock
1 tsp. salt
3/4 cup grated Parmigiano cheese
3 leaves fresh basil, chopped
1 leaf fresh mint, chopped

1. Cut off the bottom tough inch or so of the asparagus and discard. Cut off the top inch of all the spears and set aside. Slice the asparagus stalks into little disks about 1/4 inch thick.

2. Heat half the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Sauté the green onions, asparagus, salt and crushed red pepper until the asparagus is tender. Add the rice and sauté for about four minutes, stirring more or less constantly.

3. Dissolve the salt in the stock, and add the stock, one cup at a time, stirring until the rice has absorbed almost all the liquid. The rice is done when there is no crunch left in the center, but don't allow it to get mushy. It should, however, become creamy.

4. Bring a small saucepan of water to a simmer, and cook the asparagus tips for three minutes, or until tender. Drain and stir the tips into the rice, along with the Parmigiano, basil, mint, and the rest of the butter.

Serves four to six.

Revised 3/29/08


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