Jun 08 2026
RestaurantsWaterfront Wines RestaurantRisotto With Seared Scallops Recipe

Risotto With Seared Scallops Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

House Smoked Bacon, Candied Fennel, Lemon, Fresh Dill

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Method

Cooking the Risotto

  1. 1

    Prepare the Broth

    In a saucepan, heat the chicken broth over low heat to keep it warm.

  2. 2

    Cook the Bacon

    In a large skillet, cook the house smoked bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and chop into small pieces. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet.

  3. 3

    Sauté the Rice

    In the same skillet, add olive oil and Arborio rice. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent.

  4. 4

    Add Broth Gradually

    Start adding the warm chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.

  5. 5

    Finish the Risotto

    Stir in the candied fennel, lemon juice, and chopped bacon. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in fresh dill.

Searing the Scallops

  1. 6

    Prepare the Scallops

    Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.

  2. 7

    Sear the Scallops

    In a separate skillet, heat a little olive oil over high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Serving

  1. 8

    Plate the Dish

    Spoon the risotto into bowls, top with seared scallops, and garnish with additional candied fennel and fresh dill if desired. Serve immediately.

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