Butternut Squash Risotto with Pancetta

Portions:4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time:30 minutes
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Equipment

  • Large skillet or saucepan,
  • chopping board,
  • knife

Ingredients

  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 150 g 5.3 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
  • 400 g 14 oz butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 40 g 1.4 oz butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 300 g 10.5 oz Arborio rice (risotto rice)
  • 1 liter 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (made from bouillon cubes)
  • ½ teaspoon saffron threads or 1/3 teaspoon saffron powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons chopped celery leaves or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy.
  • Remove the pancetta from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and diced butternut squash.
  • Sauté until the onion is translucent and the squash is tender.
  • Add the minced garlic and Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring constantly, and cook for about 1 minute until the rice is well coated with butter.
  • Stir in 1 dl (about 1/2 cup) of the broth and the saffron threads or powder.
  • Cook, stirring, until most of the liquid has evaporated.
  • Gradually add the remaining broth, about 1/2 to 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more.
  • Continue this process until the rice is creamy and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  • Stir in the cooked pancetta, ground nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Optionally, stir in an additional knob of butter for extra creaminess.
  • Serve the risotto hot, garnished with chopped celery leaves or parsley.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Pairing:

A medium-bodied white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy texture of the risotto and the savory flavor of the pancetta.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 400 kcal | Carbohydrates: 55 g | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 15 g | Fiber: 5 g | Sugar: 3 g
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Course Main Dish / Rice
Cuisine Italian