Winter Recipe 3 - A Comforting Risotto for Gut Health

Ok, so this may not sound like much to some of you, but this can be the perfect filler meal: gentle on digestion and easy to customise. It can be made vegan or vegetarian, with the option of adding or removing vegetables depending on your tolerance to individual foods.

Why Choose Risotto?

Risotto is not just a dish; it's a delightful experience. The creamy texture and rich flavours can be comforting, especially when you're looking for something nourishing. This dish is versatile and can be tailored to meet your specific dietary needs. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a hearty meal, risotto has you covered.

Ingredients

• 300 g Arborio rice

• 2 stalks of celery, chopped (optional)

• 3 large mushrooms, roughly chopped (we want nice big pieces)

• 3 medium tomatoes (optional)

• 1–1.5 L vegetable stock, kept hot

• 20 g dried porcini mushrooms

• A handful of fresh basil

• Parmigiano cheese (optional — note this makes the dish vegetarian, not vegan)

• 1 large red onion

• A small amount of white wine (optional)

• Olive oil

  
  

Method

1. Begin by gently frying the onion in a pan with olive oil over a low heat. Allow it to sweat without colouring. Once the onion is soft and translucent, add the rice and stir for a minute so the grains are coated in oil.

   
   

2. Add the white wine (if using) and allow it to almost completely evaporate, stirring gently.

   
   

3. Meanwhile, rehydrate the dried porcini mushrooms in boiling water. Once softened, chop them finely and reserve the soaking liquid. Strain it and add it to your stock for extra flavour.

   
   

4. Add the fresh mushrooms and porcini to the pan. Begin adding the hot stock a ladle at a time, stirring regularly. Allow the rice to absorb the stock before adding more. Keep the risotto at a gentle simmer. Continue this process until the rice is cooked but still has a slight bite (around 18–20 minutes).

   
   

5. While the risotto cooks, cut the tomatoes into strips, removing the watery, seedy centres. Finely chop the basil. Grate the Parmigiano if using.

   
   

6. Once the risotto is cooked, remove it from the heat. Stir in the tomatoes and basil. Drizzle with a little olive oil and finish with grated Parmigiano if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning.

   
   

Enjoy Your Meal

This risotto is simple, comforting, and easy on the gut. It's a dish that can bring joy and satisfaction to your dining experience. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals.

Customising Your Risotto

Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like spinach or peas. If you're looking for protein, consider adding beans or lentils. The beauty of risotto lies in its adaptability.

The Benefits of a Balanced Meal

Eating a balanced meal is essential for maintaining good gut health. This risotto provides a great combination of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fibre. It’s a dish that not only fills you up but also supports your overall well-being.

Conclusion

Incorporating meals like this risotto into your routine can be a game-changer. It’s not just about eating; it’s about enjoying the process and nourishing your body. Remember, every meal is an opportunity to take a step towards better health.

So, gather your ingredients and give this comforting risotto a try. You might just find your new favourite dish!

---wix---