Risi e Bisi, a classic Venetian dish, offers a delightful blend of flavors. Featuring tender rice and peas with a hint of ham and parmesan, this dish is comfort in a bowl. With a taste reminiscent of risotto, Risi e Bisi is a simple yet flavorful meal that's perfect for any time of the year.
Most of the ingredients in this Risi e Bisi recipe are common pantry staples. One ingredient that might catch your attention is the 'deli ham'. It's worth noting that the quality of the ham can greatly affect the depth of flavor in this dish. When you're at the supermarket, try to find a quality deli ham. Also, 'petite peas' are smaller than regular peas and they are sweeter and more tender. If you can't find them, regular peas will do the job.
Ingredients for Risi e Bisi with Ham and Parmesan
Butter: Adds a creamy, rich depth to the dish.
Onion: Provides a savory sweetness.
Celery: Gives a crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
Garlic: Provides a pungent, spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens with cooking.
Dry white wine: Adds acidity and flavor, whilst also helping to tenderize the rice.
Low sodium chicken broth: The base of the dish, providing the primary liquid and flavor.
Rice: The main ingredient of this dish, offering a starchy and filling component.
Fresh parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
Frozen petite peas: Adds a sweet taste and vibrant color to the dish.
Deli ham: Provides a rich and savory flavor.
Parmesan: Gives a savory taste and silky texture to the dish.
Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity.
One reader, Blaire Prince says:
This risi e bisi with ham and parmesan recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of flavors is simply divine, and the recipe is easy to follow. The ham and parmesan add a rich, savory element that takes this dish to the next level. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required
How to prepare the vegetables: The onion, celery, and garlic should be finely chopped to ensure they cook evenly and release their flavors into the dish.
How to cook the rice: The rice should be cooked at a low boil, stirring occasionally, until it is just tender. This will help to achieve the perfect texture for the risi e bisi.
How to incorporate the peas, ham, parmesan, and pepper: When adding these ingredients, stir gently to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dish without breaking up the rice.
How To Make Risi e Bisi with Ham and Parmesan
Risi e bisi, or rice and peas, is a thick Italian soup primarily composed of rice and peas. This recipe takes it a step further with some parmesan and ham.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6tbspbutter
- 1onion
- 1rib celery
- 1largeclove garlic
- ½cupdry white wine
- 2qtlow sodium chicken broth,canned, or homemade stock
- 1½cupsrice
- 2tbspfresh parsley,chopped
- 1¾tspsalt
- 2cupsfrozen petite peas
- ¼lbpiece deli ham
- ¾cupparmesan,grated
- ½tspfresh ground black pepper
Instructions
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In a large pot, melt the butter over moderately low heat
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Add the onion, celery and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
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Add the wine and boil for about 5 minutes until it almost evaporates.
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Add the broth and bring to a boil
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Boil for about 20 minutes until the liquid is reduced to approximately 7 cups.
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Add the rice, parsley and salt and cook at a low boil for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is just tender.
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Stir in the peas, ham, Parmesan and pepper
Nutrition
- Calories: 748.67kcal
- Fat: 30.59g
- Saturated Fat: 17.40g
- Trans Fat: 0.70g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.30g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.91g
- Carbohydrates: 81.00g
- Fiber: 4.94g
- Sugar: 6.74g
- Protein: 33.83g
- Cholesterol: 80.91mg
- Sodium: 1807.64mg
- Calcium: 406.85mg
- Potassium: 877.76mg
- Iron: 3.53mg
- Vitamin A: 241.26µg
- Vitamin C: 35.67mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Risi e Bisi
When preparing the risi e bisi, it's important to remember that the key to a creamy, risotto-like texture is the constant stirring. This not only prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot, but it also helps to release the starches in the rice, which contributes to the overall creaminess of the dish. Additionally, using a dry white wine can add a depth of flavor to the dish. However, make sure to let it evaporate before adding the broth to prevent an overpowering wine flavor. Lastly, adding the parmesan at the end helps to thicken the dish and gives it a rich, cheesy flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dish
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.
Efficient tools: Use kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up prep work.
Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of certain components, such as stocks or sauces, and freeze them for future use.
Time-saving ingredients: Utilize pre-chopped vegetables, canned beans, and pre-cooked grains to cut down on prep time.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to ensure efficient cooking and avoid mistakes that can waste time.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes while cooking to maintain an organized workspace.
Substitute Ingredients For Risi e Bisi with Ham and Parmesan Recipe
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich flavor and can be a healthier alternative to butter.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a delicate taste to the dish.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and a hint of licorice flavor, which can complement the dish well.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor profile.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth: Broth can add depth of flavor without the alcohol content, making it a suitable non-alcoholic substitute.
low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar savory base while catering to vegetarian preferences.
rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious alternative to rice, offering a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh and citrusy flavor, adding a unique twist to the dish.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can offer a more complex flavor profile and a slightly less intense saltiness compared to regular table salt.
frozen petite peas - Substitute with frozen edamame: Edamame can provide a similar pop of color and texture, while offering a different flavor and added protein.
deli ham - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto can offer a similar salty and savory flavor, adding a gourmet touch to the dish.
parmesan - Substitute with pecorino: Pecorino cheese has a similar salty and tangy flavor, making it a suitable alternative to parmesan.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a milder and slightly earthy flavor, blending seamlessly into the dish.
Presentation Tips for Risi e Bisi
Elevate the plating: When presenting the risi e bisi with ham and parmesan, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with finely chopped fresh parsley just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the overall presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the risi e bisi before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Use elegant serving utensils: Opt for sleek and modern serving utensils to elevate the dining experience. Consider using silver or polished stainless steel to complement the refined nature of the dish.
Consider the placement of the ham: When adding the deli ham to the dish, arrange it in a visually appealing manner. Whether folded or delicately placed, the ham should be presented thoughtfully.
Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan: Just before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated parmesan over the risi e bisi. This not only adds a rich, savory flavor but also creates an inviting visual appeal.
Emphasize the vibrant peas: Ensure that the frozen petite peas are evenly distributed throughout the dish, adding a burst of color and freshness to the overall presentation.
Focus on precision and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, aiming for a balanced and visually appealing arrangement that showcases the ingredients harmoniously.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Risi e Bisi with Ham and Parmesan
- Large pot: A large, sturdy cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, and preparing large quantities of food.
- Knife: A sharp cutting tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat, durable surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: A versatile cooking utensil used for stirring, mixing, and tasting dishes.
- Grater: A kitchen tool with various grating surfaces used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential tools for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Saucepan: A medium-sized cooking pot with a handle and a lid, used for heating and cooking sauces, soups, and other dishes.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining liquids from cooked food.
- Cheese grater: A specific type of grater designed for grating cheese into fine shreds or slices.
- Peeler: A handheld tool used for peeling the skin off fruits and vegetables.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping, beating, and blending ingredients together.
- Measuring scale: A device used to accurately measure the weight of ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves for easy incorporation into dishes.
- Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups, stews, and sauces.
- Tongs: A versatile kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot, used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate items.
- Box grater: A grater with multiple grating surfaces, including fine, medium, and coarse, used for grating various ingredients.
- Skimmer: A flat, perforated utensil used for removing foam or impurities from the surface of liquids.
- Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles, used for applying egg wash, butter, or glazes to pastries and other dishes.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Allow the risi e bisi to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the rice from becoming mushy and help maintain its texture.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled risi e bisi to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to restore moisture.
To freeze, portion the cooled risi e bisi into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen risi e bisi, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the thawed dish in a pot over low heat, stirring gently and adding a small amount of chicken broth or water to restore moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.
If you prefer, you can also freeze individual portions of risi e bisi in muffin tins or ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the portions to a freezer-safe bag for easy storage and quick reheating. This method allows you to thaw and reheat only the amount you need, making it perfect for quick lunches or single servings.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover risi e bisi to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and the parmesan is melted and bubbly. This method helps to retain the moisture in the dish and prevents the rice from drying out.
For a quicker reheating option, use your microwave. Place the leftover risi e bisi in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is heated through and the peas are tender. Be careful not to overheat the dish, as this can cause the rice to become mushy.
If you prefer a slightly crispy texture, reheat the risi e bisi in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet and stir the rice frequently until it is heated through and slightly crispy on the bottom. This method works well if you have a smaller portion of leftovers and want to add a bit of extra flavor and texture to the dish.
For a more flavorful reheating experience, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the leftover risi e bisi before reheating. This will help to revive the flavors and keep the rice moist. You can also add some freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley on top of the reheated dish for an extra burst of flavor.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can use it to reheat your leftover risi e bisi. Place the rice in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag with the air removed. Set your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C) and submerge the bag in the water bath for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is heated through. This method ensures that the rice is evenly heated and retains its original texture and flavor.
Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This risi e bisi with ham and parmesan recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The combination of rice, peas, ham, and parmesan creates a satisfying and flavorful dish that is budget-friendly. The ingredients are commonly found in most households, making it an accessible recipe for many. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20, depending on the availability and quality of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The risi e bisi with ham and parmesan recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat.
- Deli ham is often processed and high in sodium.
- Parmesan cheese, while delicious, is also high in saturated fat and sodium.
- White rice is a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as onion, celery, garlic, and peas, which provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of butter used and replace some of it with olive oil, which is a healthier fat.
- Opt for a lower sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content.
- Choose a leaner protein source, such as chicken breast or turkey, instead of deli ham.
- Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding carrots, mushrooms, or spinach, to boost the vitamin and mineral content.
- Use a smaller amount of parmesan cheese or replace it with a lower fat alternative, such as nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Italian Recipe
This recipe for risi e bisi with ham and parmesan is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of white wine adds a depth of flavor, while the addition of ham and parmesan brings a savory richness to the dish. The method of cooking the rice in the broth allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the peas add a pop of color and freshness. Overall, this dish is a wonderful balance of creamy, salty, and fresh elements, making it a perfect choice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Enhance Your Risi e Bisi with Ham and Parmesan Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Risi e Bisi with Ham and Parmesan Recipe:
This recipe for Risi e Bisi with ham and parmesan is a classic Italian dish that combines the richness of butter and parmesan with the savory flavor of ham. The use of fresh parsley and peas adds a burst of color and freshness, while the white wine infuses a subtle depth of flavor. The step-by-step instructions ensure that the rice is perfectly cooked, and the addition of peas and ham provides a delightful contrast in texture and taste. This recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of Italian cuisine and is sure to impress anyone seeking a comforting and flavorful meal.
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