Comforting Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe

Butternut Squash and Bacon Risotto

Hey there, foodies! Today, I’m excited to share with you my latest creation: Butternut Squash and Bacon Risotto. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. The creamy texture of the risotto paired with the sweetness of the butternut squash and the savory crunch of bacon is a match made in heaven. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• Arborio rice (300g)
• Butternut squash, diced (400g)
• Bacon, chopped (150g)
• Onion, finely chopped (1 medium)
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
• Chicken stock (1L)
• White wine (150ml)
• Parmesan cheese, grated (100g)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Tools:

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• large saucepan
• wooden spoon
• grater

To start, heat a large saucepan over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, then remove the bacon from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the diced butternut squash until slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until translucent.

Next, add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast for a few minutes until the grains are coated in the bacon fat. Deglaze the pan with white wine, stirring constantly until the wine is absorbed. Begin adding the chicken stock, one ladleful at a time, stirring often and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more.

Continue this process until the risotto is creamy and the rice is cooked through but still has a slight bite. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the crispy bacon back into the pan and give everything a final stir.

To serve, garnish the risotto with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This Butternut Squash and Bacon Risotto is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan.

The total weight of the cooked dish is approximately 1200g, with 4 servings at an average of 300g per serving. Each serving is estimated to be around 450 calories.

Pro tip: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the risotto just before serving. It adds a tangy kick that takes this dish to the next level!

I hope you give this Butternut Squash and Bacon Risotto a try and make it your own. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients or spices to suit your taste. Happy cooking!