Indulge in the comforting warmth of our “Caprese Risotto Delight,” where traditional Italian flavors meet the creamy richness of risotto. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, blending the vibrant tastes of tomato and mozzarella with the elegant sophistication of Arborio rice. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a stylish starter for your dinner parties, this risotto promises to captivate your palate.
Rich Flavors, Comforting Textures
The foundation of this delightful risotto is a simmering blend of tomato juice and your choice of chicken or vegetable stock, which infuses the rice with a deep, savory base. Bodacious Regional Pure Extra Virgin Olive Oil Robust adds a fruity depth to the sautéed shallots, setting the stage for layers of flavor that are further enhanced by the tangy twist of Bodacious Sicilian Lemon White Balsamic Vinegar.
The Heart of the Dish
True to its Caprese inspiration, this risotto features cherry-sized fresh mozzarella balls and fresh basil leaves, introducing a creamy texture and fresh, herbaceous notes. The crushed tomatoes stir into the mix, maintaining the integrity of the classic Caprese flavor combination while adding a comforting, saucy component to the creamy risotto.
Elegant Variations
Elevate your culinary creation by experimenting with sophisticated variations like beet and red wine or mushroom and truffle risotto, turning a simple dish into a gourmet experience. These versions not only add a luxurious dimension to the meal but also cater to diverse palates and occasions.
Perfect Preparation
Cooking risotto is an art form that requires patience and precision. Gradually adding the stock allows the rice to absorb the flavors fully and develop a creamy texture without becoming mushy. The final addition of mozzarella and basil just before serving ensures the cheese melts sumptuously into the warm risotto, with basil adding a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Caprese Risotto Delight in a large bowl or on individual plates, garnished with extra mozzarella and basil leaves. A final drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving enhances the flavors and adds a luxurious touch to this exquisite dish.
Italian Caprese-Style Risotto
Ingredients
- 3 cup tomato juice
- 2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 shallots
- ¼ cup Bodacious Regional Pure Extra Virgin Olive Oil Robust
- 1 ½ cup Arborio rice
- ½ cup Bodacious Sicilian Lemon White Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup cherry-sixed fresh mozzarella balls, plus more for garnish
- ½ cup torn basil leaves, plus a few whole leaves for garnish
- sea salt
RECOMMENDED VARIETALS
- Substitute Bodacious Sicilian Lemon White Balsamic Vinegar for the Herbs of Naples Dark Balsamic Vinegar and use Garlic Infused or Basil Infused Bodacious Olive Oil instead of the extra virgin.
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring the tomato juice and stock to a simmer over medium heat, cover, and continue to simmer without reaching a boil.
- In a large frying pan over medium heat, saute the shallots in the olive oil until soft but not golden, about 3 minute. Add the rice and mix to coat it evenly with olive oil, ensuring the rice is shiny and translucent.
- Add the balsamic to deglaze the pan and scrape up any bits of shallot that may have stuck, stirring constantly. Keep the heat on medium.
- Keep stirring until the balsamic has evaporated, about 2 minutes. Slowly add the stock, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring between each addition to ensure that the rice is absorbing the stock slowly and consistently. Only add the next addition of stock when the pan is almost dry.
- Once three-quarters of the stock has been added and the rice is starting to look plump, check the texture of the rice. If it’s creamy and smooth, it’s time to add the tomatoes. If it still has a bit of crunch to it, add another splash of stock, stir until it has been fully absorbed, then add the tomatoes and test again. Stir in the mozzarella and basil.
- Place the risotto in a serving bowl or on individual plates, sprinkle with a touch of sea salt, drizzle generously with more olive oil, and top with a few pieces of mozzarella and a couple of basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Risotto
- Flavorful and Hearty: Every spoonful offers a comforting taste of Italy, perfect for satisfying your culinary cravings.
- Visually Stunning: With its vibrant colors and creamy texture, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Versatile: Ideal for a main course or a sophisticated side, adaptable with various ingredients to suit any occasion.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a sumptuous meal, our Caprese Risotto Delight is sure to become a cherished recipe in your repertoire. Enjoy the process of creating this dish as much as you relish each creamy, flavorful bite.
-
Regional Pure Extra Virgin Olive Oil Robust$21.00 – $35.00
-
Sicilian Lemon White Balsamic$15.00 – $35.00
-
Italian Herbs of Naples Dark Balsamic$15.00 – $35.00
-
Peperoncino Garlic Infused Olive Oil$15.00 – $35.00
-
Basil Infused Olive Oil$15.00 – $35.00
-
Garlic Infused Olive Oil$15.00 – $35.00