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Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto

Creamy Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto Bliss

Experience the rich flavors of Caramelized Onion, Bacon, and Parmesan Risotto, a delightful dish perfect for any dinner occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Risotto Base
  • 4 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use good quality for best taste
  • 6 slices Thick-Cut Bacon Can be swapped with pancetta or turkey bacon
  • 1 medium Shallot Can use more onion if preferred
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves offer the best flavor
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice Do not substitute with regular rice
  • 1/2 cup Dry White Wine Substitute with additional chicken broth for non-alcoholic version
For Caramelization
  • 2 cups Caramelized Onions Make ahead or cook alongside the risotto
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup Parmesan-Reggiano Can substitute with Pecorino Romano
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Optional but recommended
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Chives Alternatively use parsley
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust based on broth and preference

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • large sauté pan
  • wooden spoon
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine low-sodium chicken broth and heat over medium-low until it reaches a gentle simmer.
  2. In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped thick-cut bacon and cook for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low, add finely chopped shallots and a pinch of salt, cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  5. Stir in drained Arborio rice, sauté for 2-3 minutes until it begins to look slightly translucent.
  6. Pour in dry white wine, gently stirring to deglaze the pan, allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Start adding warm chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently, takes about 20-25 minutes.
  8. Once rice is creamy and tender, stir in caramelized onions and crispy bacon.
  9. Add grated Parmesan cheese and unsalted butter, stirring until melted into a luxurious creamy consistency.
  10. Ladle into warm bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped chives and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Stir constantly for creaminess and avoid adding cold broth. Taste as you go for perfect seasoning.

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