Recipe: Risotto alla Milanese
Serves 4
We often think of pasta and pizza when we think of Italian food, but in Northern Italy, Risotto is king. And in Milan, it takes on a life of its own with the addition of saffron, sharp cheese and often a serving of beef marrow.
Rice first came to Sicily by the Moors in the 13th century. It crossed over to mainland Italy becoming popular in Naples where it was then taken by the Sforzas north to Milan, where crops thrived in the Po Valley. Today, the Po Valley remains one of the largest rice producers in Europe and rice is eaten extensively throughout northern Italy.
Ingredients:
1 minced onion
2 Tbsp butter (unsalted)
1 cup Piedmontese or Arborio rice (short grain rice)
¼ cup white wine
4 cups chicken stock
salt/pepper to taste
pinch of saffron threads
½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated
parsley (chopped, flat leaf)
Preparation:
Over medium heat, sauté onions in 1 Tbsp butter until browned. Add rice and wine, stirring until wine is absorbed. Sprinkle in saffron and gradually add chicken stock, allowing it to absorb before adding more while stirring and simmer, stirring constantly for 15-25 minutes. I cannot say “stir constantly” enough here–it is very important. When done, rice should be al dente (firm with a little crunch to the bite, not mushy), and have a light creamy sauce. Stir in cheese and remaining 1 Tbsp butter. Garnish with parsley and serve.
If you end up with leftovers, you can whip up “Risotto in Salto” or rice pancakes the next day. Take your leftover risotto, and flatten into 1/4″ thick pancakes. Dip in a mix of beaten egg and bread crumbs and then pan fry with butter on both sides until golden brown. Serve immediately with cheese and butter.
Enjoy this delicious meal at home, or visit the source in Milan and enjoy a bowl at a trattoria there. While visiting, don’t miss the spectacular Duomo cathedral, or a visit to see Leonardo daVinci’s Last Supper, which requires purchase of advance tickets. And did you know that Milan has a set of canals? Yes, indeed! Even more interesting, they were also designed by daVinci. And of course, while you’re in Milan, why not catch an opera at the world-famous La Scala opera house? The opera season runs from early December to July. Theatre, ballet and concerts are also performed at La Scala throughout the year (except August). For the latest details on happenings in Milan, visit www.timeout.com/milan.