**Riso al Forno (Baked Risotto): An Appetizing Variation on a Traditional Dish**
Riso al Forno, also known as Baked Risotto, is a charming Italian creation that introduces a distinct variation to the conventional lasagna by substituting pasta layers with rice. This cozy dish merges layers of partially cooked arborio rice, a rich beef and tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, resulting in a meal that is both filling and tasty.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese)
– 1 pound lean ground beef or Italian sausage (casings taken off)
– 1 diced onion
– 3 cloves chopped garlic
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel seeds (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes or 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning or oregano
– 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
**Directions:**
1. Boil the rice in salted water for 10 minutes, drain, and cool with cold water. Stir in olive oil and parmesan, then set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef and onion over medium-high heat, breaking up the beef, for around 10 minutes.
3. Incorporate garlic, red pepper flakes, fennel, and tomato paste. Cook until aromatic, about a minute.
4. Add tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a boil, lower heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Grease a large baking dish. Layer half the rice, half the sauce, and half the cheese. Repeat with the remaining rice, sauce, and cheese.
6. Bake in a preheated 350°F/180°C oven until edges are bubbling and cheese is golden, about 30 minutes.
**Cooking Tips:**
– Utilize lean beef to sauté with the onion simultaneously. If using fattier beef, cook separately and drain the fat.
– Arborio rice can be swapped with carnaroli, sushi rice, or standard long-grain rice.
**Optional Additions:**
– Pancetta or bacon
– Pepperoni
– Carrots
– Celery
– Mushrooms
– Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
– Heavy/whipping cream
**Nutrition Facts:**
– Calories: 513
– Fat: 24g (Saturated: 10g, Trans: 0.6g)
– Cholesterol: 71mg
– Sodium: 432mg
– Carbs: 45g (Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 2g)
– Protein: 25g
Riso al Forno is a warm and fulfilling dish that embodies the spirit of Italian gastronomy. With its layers of creamy rice, flavorful meat sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a meal that’s guaranteed to impress any gathering. Savor this delightful baked risotto as a robust dinner choice for family and friends.