Risotto with Apples and Speck

I can provide you with a recipe for risotto with apples and speck, which combines the sweetness of apples with the savoriness of speck. Here’s how you can prepare this dish:

Ingredients

• 320 g Carnaroli or Arborio rice
• 2 apples, preferably of the acidic type (such as Granny Smith)
• 150 g speck, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 liter vegetable broth (or meat broth, if you prefer)
• 1 glass dry white wine
• 40 g butter
• Extra virgin olive oil to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• grated Parmesan (optional)

Preparation

1. In a large pot, sauté the finely chopped onion with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the diced speck and let it brown for a few minutes.
3. Peel the apples, remove the core, and cut them into small cubes.
4. Add the apples to the pot with the speck and onion and let them flavor for a couple of minutes.
5. Increase the heat and add the rice, toasting it for a few minutes until it becomes translucent, stirring to prevent it from sticking or burning.
6. Deglaze with the white wine and let the alcohol evaporate.
7. Begin adding the broth one ladle at a time, waiting for the rice to absorb almost all the liquid before adding the next. Continue this way for about 15-18 minutes.
8. Taste the rice to check its doneness: it should be al dente.
9. When the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter, adjusting salt and pepper to your taste. If desired, you can also add some grated Parmesan.
10. Let the risotto rest for a minute with the lid on, then serve hot.

Fun Facts

The risotto with apples and speck is a dish that combines the tradition of Italian cuisine with innovation, uniting sweet flavors with savory ones. This risotto is ideal for those seeking a comforting dish with an original touch. The addition of an aged cheese like Parmesan can further enhance its flavor.