Chapter 4: Rice And Grains, The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook
Description
This luxurious Mediterranean-style risotto brings the vibrant flavors of the coast to your dinner table. Arborio rice is slowly cooked in a fragrant broth made from shrimp shells, chicken stock, and clam juice, resulting in a dish that is incredibly creamy yet distinct from traditional Italian risotto. The addition of saffron threads imparts a beautiful golden hue and an earthy, floral note that complements the sweet, briny shrimp. Finished with diced tomatoes and fresh garlic, this dish offers a perfect balance of acidity and richness. It is an elegant yet approachable meal, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering where you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large saucepan, combine the reserved shrimp shells, chicken broth, water, clam juice, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the shells to extract all liquid. Discard shells and bay leaves; keep broth warm.
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In the same large saucepan or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it well with the oil and onion mixture, and toast for 2-3 minutes until the edges become slightly translucent.
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Add the drained diced tomatoes and stir to combine. Gradually ladle in the warm shrimp broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be mostly absorbed before adding the next.
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Continue adding broth and stirring for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente). The mixture should be creamy.
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Stir in the crumbled saffron threads and the prepared shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
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Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh thyme (or dried thyme). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1099.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 41.2g64%
- Saturated Fat 8.0g40%
- Cholesterol 588.8mg197%
- Sodium 1796.7mg75%
- Total Carbohydrate 75.6g26%
- Dietary Fiber 14.0g57%
- Sugars 1.8g
- Protein 111.7g224%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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