Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of perfectly cooked risotto, the smoky crunch of crispy bacon, and the fresh burst of sweet peas - all in one incredible meal! This Creamy Pea and Bacon Risotto with Mint is not just a recipe, it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious weeknight meal, this Italian-inspired dish promises to be your new favorite comfort food.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 cup fresh peas
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the bacon into small pieces, chop the fresh mint, and have your chicken broth warmed and ready for use.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave the bacon fat in the pot as it will add flavor to the risotto.
- Add the Arborio rice to the pot with the bacon fat. Stir the rice for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly and absorb the flavors of the bacon.
- Begin adding the warmed chicken broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time. Stir the rice continuously until the broth is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladleful. This process will take about 20-25 minutes. The rice should be creamy and al dente when done.
- About 5 minutes before the risotto is finished cooking, add the fresh peas to the pot. Stir them in gently to combine, allowing them to cook and soften slightly in the risotto.
- Once the risotto is creamy and the rice is cooked to your desired texture, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped fresh mint. Mix well until the cheese is melted and incorporated.
- Season the risotto with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the bacon and Parmesan already add some saltiness, so taste before adding more salt.
- Serve the creamy pea and bacon risotto hot, garnished with the crispy bacon pieces on top and additional mint if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Use Arborio rice specifically - its high starch content is key to achieving that signature creamy texture.
- Keep your chicken broth warm throughout cooking to ensure consistent temperature and smooth risotto development.
- Stir continuously and add broth gradually - this releases the rice's starches and creates that signature creamy consistency.
- Don't rush the cooking process. Risotto requires patience and constant attention.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially the mint and peas, to elevate the dish's flavor profile.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end - the bacon and Parmesan already add saltiness.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
