Ham Hock Risotto – A Delicious and Hearty Meal

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 400 grams arborio rice
• 150 ml dry white wine
• 900 ml chicken stock, hot
• 250 grams cooked and shredded ham hock
• 100 grams frozen peas
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 50 grams parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation Method:

Step 1: Preparing the Base

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cooking the Rice

1. Add Arborio Rice: Stir the arborio rice into the onion and garlic mixture, ensuring the grains are fully coated with the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges of the rice become translucent.
2. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and stir continuously. Cook until most of the wine has evaporated, leaving the rice looking creamy.

Step 3: Slowly Incorporate the Stock

1. Add the Chicken Stock: Start adding the chicken stock to the rice, one ladle full at a time. Stir frequently, allowing each addition of stock to be absorbed before adding the next. This process should take about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is tender with a slight bite (al dente).

Step 4: Integrate Additional Flavors

1. Incorporate the Ham Hock: Once the rice is nearly cooked, stir in the cooked and shredded ham hock. Allow it to heat through.
2. Add Peas and Lemon: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the zest, mixing well to balance the flavors.
3. Finish with Parmesan: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the risotto. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate and Garnish: Spoon the risotto into bowls or onto plates, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Optionally, sprinkle a bit more parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Recipe Summary:

• Calorie Count: Approximately 480 calories per serving
• Preparation Time: About 45 minutes

Ham Hock Risotto is a deliciously creamy and savory dish perfect for those cooler evenings when you desire something warm and comforting. The combination of the salty ham hock, sweet peas, and the zingy lemon zest makes this risotto both satisfying and refreshingly flavorful. It’s an exquisite way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a hearty twist. Enjoy this beautiful symphony of flavors, and relish the satisfaction of serving a home-cooked meal that warms the soul.