Risotto alla Zucca - Authentic Lombardyian Pumpkin Risotto Recipe

🍝 About This Dish

Risotto alla Zucca, or Pumpkin Risotto, is a traditional Italian dish hailing from the Lombardy region, known for its rich culinary heritage. This creamy and flavorful risotto showcases the marriage of creamy Arborio rice with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that embodies the essence of Lombardyian cuisine.

🌿 Ingredients Overview

• 320g Arborio rice
• 500g pumpkin (zucca)
• 1 onion (cipolla)
• 1.2 liters vegetable broth (brodo vegetale)
• 60g butter (burro)
• 60g grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
• 120ml dry white wine (vino bianco secco)
• Salt and pepper to taste

✨ What Makes It Special

Risotto alla Zucca is cherished for its simplicity and depth of flavor. While the basic recipe remains consistent, variations may include the addition of pancetta or saffron for additional complexity. This dish represents the heartiness and warmth of Lombardyian cuisine, showcasing the region's dedication to quality ingredients and meticulous preparation techniques.

📝 Ingredients

• Heat the vegetable broth in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.
• Peel and dice the pumpkin into small cubes.
• Finely chop the onion.
• In a separate large pan, melt half of the butter and sauté the onion until translucent.
• Add the Arborio rice to the pan and toast it for a couple of minutes until translucent around the edges.
• Pour in the white wine and let it evaporate.
• Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more.
• After about 15 minutes, add the diced pumpkin to the risotto.
• Continue adding broth and stirring until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.
• Stir in the remaining butter and grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Let the risotto rest for a few minutes before serving.

⏰ Timing Guide

Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 30 minutes Total: 45 minutes

🍷 Wine Pairing

Risotto alla Zucca pairs beautifully with a medium-bodied white wine such as a Pinot Grigio or a Chardonnay. The crisp acidity and subtle fruit notes of these wines complement the creamy texture and earthy sweetness of the pumpkin risotto. Serve the risotto in shallow bowls and enjoy with a chilled glass of your preferred white wine.

💭 Chef's Notes

• Use Arborio rice for the classic creamy texture of risotto.
• Stir the risotto gently and consistently to release the starches and create a velvety consistency.
• Experiment with additional ingredients like pancetta or saffron to add depth to the dish.
• Serve the risotto immediately for the best taste and texture.

📦 Storage

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore the creamy consistency.

Buon appetito!