Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into an Italian paradise! This Bacon Basil and Tomato Risotto is not just a meal—it's a creamy, flavor-packed experience that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Imagine the perfect combination of crispy bacon, burst-in-your-mouth cherry tomatoes, and aromatic fresh basil, all nestled in a luxuriously creamy risotto that's surprisingly simple to create.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the chicken broth and keep it simmering on low heat. This ensures the broth is warm when added to the risotto, which helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or risotto pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- In the same pan with bacon fat, sauté the diced onion until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps the rice develop a nutty flavor and allows it to better absorb the liquid.
- Begin adding the warm chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Allow each ladle of broth to be almost completely absorbed before adding the next. This slow process helps release the rice's starches, creating a creamy texture.
- Continue adding broth and stirring for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente. The rice should be tender but still have a slight bite in the center.
- When the rice is nearly finished, fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and most of the chopped basil, reserving some for garnish.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will help melt the cheese and create a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces and remaining fresh basil on top.
- Let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to settle. Serve immediately in warm bowls.
Tips
- Use authentic Arborio rice - its high starch content is crucial for achieving that signature creamy texture.
- Keep your broth warm throughout cooking to ensure consistent temperature and even absorption.
- Patience is key! Stirring continuously and adding broth slowly is the secret to a perfectly creamy risotto.
- Don't walk away from the stove - risotto requires your constant attention and love.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially the basil and tomatoes, to maximize flavor complexity.
- Let the risotto rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop and the texture to settle.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture - risotto waits for no one!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
