Black Pepper Risotto

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup chopped shallots
• 2 cups arborio rice
• Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste (I used about 1 1/2 teaspoons)
• 1 quart low-salt or homemade chicken broth
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese, (optional)

Method

Step 1

In a heavy high sided saucepan or risotto pan, heat the butter and oil together until the butter foams, add the shallots and cook, stirring occasionally until the shallot is beginning to brown around the edges. Add the rice and saute until the edges of the rice turn transparent and the grains begin to sizzle, about 5 minutes. Add the wine and simmer until it reduces by 1/2; add all but 1 cup of the broth, and the pepper (there should be a good amount of pepper). Bring to a simmer, cover, reduce the heat to maintain a lively simmer; and cook for 20 minutes. Remove the cover, stir and add 1/2 cup of the remaining broth. Stir well; taste and add salt as needed. If you like a looser risotto, add additional broth. Stir in optional cheese, if desired.