Caramelized Onion Bacon Parmesan Risotto (Print)

Caramelized onions, bacon, and parmesan blend with creamy rice for a warming, flavorful main dish.

# Components:

→ Risotto Base

01 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
02 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 2 strips thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
04 - 1/2 small shallot, finely diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 cup arborio rice
07 - 1/4 cup dry white wine
08 - 4 tablespoons caramelized onions, finely chopped
09 - 1/3 cup parmesan-reggiano cheese, finely grated
10 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
11 - Chives, finely chopped, for garnish
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# Method:

01 - Pour the chicken broth into a medium saucepan and gently bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Maintain the broth at a warm temperature for use during the risotto preparation.
02 - In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add olive oil and chopped bacon. Render the bacon until golden and crisp, approximately 10 minutes. With a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
03 - Reduce pan heat to medium-low. Add diced shallots with a pinch of salt, cooking for 1–2 minutes until softened and aromatic. If shallots brown too quickly, briefly remove the pan from heat.
04 - Incorporate minced garlic and stir for 1 minute. Add the arborio rice, stir thoroughly to coat each grain in oil and aromatics. Toast rice for 2–3 minutes, until only a pale center remains.
05 - Pour in the dry white wine. Allow it to simmer, stirring gently, until the wine is fully absorbed and the alcohol evaporates, about 2–3 minutes.
06 - Begin adding the warm chicken broth to the rice one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until most of the liquid has been absorbed before adding the next portion. Continue this gradual process for 20–25 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente.
07 - Once the rice is tender with a slight bite, fold in the caramelized onions and reserved bacon. Remove the pan from heat and incorporate the parmesan cheese and butter. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Top with chopped chives and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses easy to find pantry and fridge staples
  • Rich texture without heavy cream
  • Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion
  • Satisfying enough to serve as a main course
02 -
  • High in protein and fiber for a balanced meal
  • Risotto makes amazing leftovers for lunch
  • Natural gluten free grain option
03 -
  • Always use warm broth to avoid slowing the cooking process of the rice and to keep the texture creamy
  • Stir frequently but do not rush the additions of broth I discovered letting the risotto sit off heat for two minutes before serving makes it even silkier Be sure to have all ingredients prepped ahead so you can enjoy the stirring without stress

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