Chorizo and pea risotto

Chorizo and pea risotto is a nice idea for an easy lunch, something simple you can make ahead. It is best served warm, but I’m not the one turning down some cold leftovers of this wonderful pea risotto.

I bought by mistake a new brand of chorizo a couple of weeks ago and it was just aging unnecessarily in my fridge. So I had to come up with some recipes so that I don’t waste it. This is how this recipe was born. It feels a bit like some culture clash, but as long as I have the ingredients, I do love to play with some combinations.

How to make the chorizo and pea risotto

First of all, feel free to add onion, but I skipped this step, as I tend to cry over onions. In a pot, I added two tablespoons of vegetable oil and one cup of rice. I browned the rice a little bit, and then I added one cup of water. The reason I prefer a pot and not a pan is because this step is messy and the oil gets splashed everywhere. Then, cook the rice on medium heat, until the water almost evaporates. Then, add another cup of water and repeat these steps one or two times, until the rice is almost cooked, but not entirely.

Add the chopped chorizo and one cup of peas, with another cup of water, and let it cook until is done, stirring continuously. Make sure to have water so that the rice does not stick to your pot. Also, when the dish is almost done, add some sesame seeds, sesame oil (optional), and one tablespoon of lemon juice. This pea risotto recipe has so much flavor, you don’t need other spices, just salt it to your taste.

After the pea risotto is done, put two tablespoons of grated parmesan and stir until the parmesan is mixed with the rice. Serve it with more parmesan grated on top.

Important steps to make a great risotto

Brown the rice before cooking – this is an important step and should not be overlooked.

Use plain water, instead of broth or stock – you have to have clean flavors, you don’t need your rice to taste like soup/chicken.

Let it simmer slowly – This is important because the rice needs time to cook. Take your time with this step and add your water gradually, cup by cup. You will get a nice texture this way and the flavors will be richer.

Do you love to cook with seasonal fruits and vegetables? Please share your experience with us, comment below, or tag @basilbunch.blog on Instagram and hashtag it #basilbunchblog. We would love to see your creation!