Saffron Risotto with Broccoli

The difference between a good risotto and a great one? A flavorful stock that seasons the rice grains as it is absorbed.

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The difference between a good risotto and a great one? A flavorful stock that seasons the rice grains as it is absorbed.

Servings
4

Ingredients

  • 3 cups Vegetable Stock
  • 4 cups small broccoli florets
  • 1/4 tsp. Spanish saffron, divided
  • 1 Tbs. olive oil
  • 1 medium leek, white and pale green part halved and thinly sliced (11/2 cups)
  • 3/4 cup arborio rice

Preparation

1. Bring Vegetable Stock to a simmer in medium saucepan. Add broccoli, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Remove florets from broth with slotted spoon, and set aside. Stir 1/8 tsp. saffron into hot broth, reduce heat to low or turn off, cover, and keep hot.

2. Meanwhile, heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add leek, and sauté 3 to 5 minutes, or until soft. Stir in rice, and sauté 3 to 5 minutes more, or until rice grains are opaque.

3. Stir in 1 cup stock, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook rice until most of liquid is absorbed, stirring regularly. Continue adding stock 1/2 cup at a time, stirring and cooking until liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes. Stir in remaining 1/8 tsp. saffron before last addition of stock. Cook until most liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, and stir in broccoli. Cover risotto, and let stand 2 to 3 minutes, or until broccoli is hot. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories 209
  • Carbohydrate Content 39 g
  • Cholesterol Content 0 mg
  • Fat Content 4 g
  • Fiber Content 4 g
  • Protein Content 5 g
  • Saturated Fat Content 0.5 g
  • Sodium Content 262 mg
  • Sugar Content 2 g