Jul 14 2026

Risotto* Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Pumpkin purée, fried spek, toasted pepitas, brown butter, fried sage

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Ingredients

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Risotto Base

Fried Spek

Brown Butter and Sage

Toasted Pepitas

Method

Prepare the Ingredients

  1. 1

    Toast the Pepitas

    In a skillet over medium heat, add the pumpkin seeds (pepitas). Toast them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

  2. 2

    Fry the Spek

    In the same skillet, add the diced spek or pancetta. Cook over medium heat until crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Risotto

  1. 3

    Sauté the Onions and Garlic

    In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  2. 4

    Add the Arborio Rice

    Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.

  3. 5

    Add the Broth Gradually

    Begin adding the chicken or vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until most of the liquid has been absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.

  4. 6

    Incorporate the Pumpkin Purée

    Once the rice is cooked, stir in the pumpkin purée. Mix well until fully incorporated, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

  5. 7

    Finish with Parmesan and Seasoning

    Remove the risotto from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Prepare the Brown Butter and Sage

  1. 8

    Brown the Butter

    In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until the butter turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.

  2. 9

    Fry the Sage Leaves

    Add the fresh sage leaves to the browned butter and fry for about 1-2 minutes until crispy. Remove from heat.

Serve the Risotto

  1. 10

    Plate the Risotto

    Scoop the pumpkin risotto into serving bowls. Drizzle with the brown butter and sage mixture.

  2. 11

    Garnish and Serve

    Top with the fried spek and toasted pepitas. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious pumpkin risotto!

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