Saffron Risotto, Milan Style
- 6 cups Chicken Broth or Meat Broth
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons beef marrow (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, very finely chopped
- 2 cups (about 1 pound) medium grain rice, such as Arborio, Carnaroli, or Vialone Nano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- Prepare the broth, if necessary.
- Bring the broth to a simmer over medium heat, then lower the heat so it is just keeping the broth hot.
- Remove 1/2 cup broth and put in a small bowl.
- Add the saffron and allow it to soak.
- In a wide heavy saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of the butter, the marrow if using, and the oil over medium heat.
- When the butter is melted, add the onion and cook, stirring often, until golden, about 10 minutes.
- Add the rice and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon until hot, about 2 minutes.
- Add 1/2 cup of the hot broth and stir until the liquid is absorbed.
- Continue adding the broth 1/2 cup at a time, stirring after each addition.
- Adjust the heat so that the liquid simmers rapidly but the rice does not stick to the pan.
- About halfway through the cooking time, stir in the saffron mixture and salt and pepper to taste.
- Use only as much of the broth as needed until the rice becomes tender yet firm to the bite.
- When you think it may be done, taste a few grains.
- If not ready, test again in a minute or so.
- If the broth runs out before the rice is tender, use hot water.
- Cooking time will be 18 to 20 minutes.
- Remove the risotto pan from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve immediately.
chicken broth, unsalted butter, beef, olive oil, onion, grain rice, salt
Taken from www.cookstr.com/recipes/saffron-risotto-milan-style (may not work)