Flavour of the Month

Vegetable Garden Risotto

Serves 5

Risotto is an Italian rice dish, that literally means 'little rice'.  In Italy, risottos are eaten almost as often as pasta.  Making a risotto is very easy and children will also love to join in.  The key ingredient in a risotto is Arborio rice.  Arborio rice is the preferred type of rice as it absorbs many times its weight in liquid which results in a risotto's tender, creamy texture.  If you can't find Arborio rice, or don't have it on hand, you could use a short grain rice in its place.  Although this risotto features corn, peas and  mushrooms, just about any vegetable can be used.  A risotto should always be served with freshly grated parmesan cheese.  Enjoy!

Method

Heat oil in a large saucepan.

Add onion and garlic lightly fry for 2 minutes.

Add ham and stir for 2 minutes. 

Add rice, stirring quickly to coat grains.

Stir in wine and about ½ - 1 cup stock and cook until liquid is absorbed. 

Continue to add 1 cup of stock and stir, until liquid has been absorbed.  Continue adding stock and stirring.

Once half the stock has been added, add the vegetables.  Continue adding stock and stirring until rice is cooked. Total cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Once risotto is cooked, add parsley, extra garlic (optional), parmesan, and freshly ground pepper.  

Serve with extra parmesan cheese.

Health Tip

Rice is a good source of carbohydrates and fibre

Parmesan cheese adds calcium to this dish

Parsley contains a range of antioxidants