I am trying really hard to keep staples around so that at any given moment, we can make dinner without requiring a trip to the store. There are a few things that are always on hand in our house and risotto is one of them.
I used to think risotto must be a difficult meal, but that isn't quite reality. I think it's a great food and in about a half hour you can have an entire meal (even one that includes all four food groups). It's one of the most versatile foods I know of.....good as a side....good as a meal....and you can throw almost anything into it.
So after a long day at work, I started digging around and tonight the kitchen cabinets, freezer, and refrigerator provided me with chicken, peas, and carrots to put together a tasty one dish meal.
Risotto du Jour
(All measurements are approximate - As I said, you can throw almost anything in)
2 T olive oil
2 T butter
1 c. chopped carrots
1/2 c. chopped onion
1-2 cloves garlic minced
Saute for about 3-5 minutes until onions and garlic start to be clear.
1 c. risotto
Add to the pan and saute for another couple minutes.
3 c. chicken broth
Add one cup at a time until the liquid is absorbed.
1 c. peas
1 chicken breast cut and cooked
1 c. parmesan cheese
salt and pepper
a dash of cayenne
1 T oregano
Add the rest of the ingredients just before the last of the liquid has been absorbed and saute for a couple more minutes until the cheese melts.
