With the arrival of autumn, the woods of Friuli Venezia Giulia fill with porcini mushrooms, a delicacy that pairs beautifully with the sea. The risotto "mari e monti" perfectly represents this fusion of land and sea, a dish that celebrates the richness of both elements. The base of very fresh and sweet scampi is enhanced by the depth of the mushrooms, creating a balance of flavors that brings to mind family lunches during cool autumn Sundays. The cooking technique of risotto, which involves the gradual addition of fish broth, allows the rice to absorb every nuance, making the dish creamy and enveloping. To complete it all, the wild arugula releases an intense and fresh aroma, perfect for balancing the richness of the ingredients. This risotto is ideal for a special dinner, where you want to surprise your guests with a dish that tells the culinary traditions of a region rich in history and authentic flavors.
* approximate values per serving
It is a variant of the scampi risotto typical of the coastline of Friuli Venezia Giulia. Enhanced by the flavor of porcini mushrooms from Cadore, the rice is cooked with fish broth, and in the end, the aroma of wild arugula brings a taste long forgotten in modern times. In a saucepan, heat the oil and add the garlic, stirring with a wooden spoon for two or three minutes without letting it take on color; add the scampi tails, the porcini mushrooms, and sauté them; then add the rice. Toast for a couple of minutes, splash with white wine, season with salt and pepper, let it dry out, and cook by adding the boiling fish broth a little at a time. Three-quarters of the way through cooking, add the wild arugula. Keep the rice quite brothy and finish by stirring in the butter with a small splash of cognac.
One of the tastiest variations of the "sea and mountains" risotto is the one that includes fresh porcini mushrooms. This preparation enhances the flavor of the rice, creating a perfect balance between the sea and the mountains. The porcini mushrooms, with their earthy aroma and meaty texture, pair wonderfully with the tails of scampi, enriching the dish with aromatic notes. To prepare this variation, it is essential to use high-quality mushrooms, preferably fresh, to ensure an intense and authentic flavor. The addition of a good white wine during the cooking of the risotto will further enhance the flavors, making every bite a true delight. This risotto is perfect for a special dinner or to surprise your guests with a refined dish rich in character.
The "sea and mountains" risotto has its origins in Friuli Venezia Giulia, a region that boasts a rich and varied culinary tradition. The Friulian version of this dish uses fresh, local ingredients, such as scampi from the coastline and porcini mushrooms from the surrounding woods. The Friulian preparation is distinguished by the use of fish stock, which gives the risotto a deep and enveloping flavor. The slow and careful cooking allows the rice to absorb all the flavors, creating a creamy and rich consistency. To complete the dish, it is recommended to garnish with wild arugula, which adds a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast. This risotto is a perfect example of regional cuisine, where the sea and mountains meet in an embrace of authentic and traditional flavors.
For those who wish to enjoy a "sea and mountains" risotto in a lighter version, it is possible to reduce the use of butter and oil, replacing them with vegetable broth and a drizzle of raw extra virgin olive oil. This light preparation maintains the flavor thanks to the use of fresh, quality ingredients, such as scampi and porcini mushrooms, without weighing down the dish. Additionally, the addition of wild arugula not only enriches the risotto with flavor but also provides an important supply of vitamins and minerals. This variant is ideal for those following a balanced diet but who do not want to give up taste. With a few precautions, it is possible to achieve a delicious and nutritious dish, perfect for those who wish to maintain their figure without sacrificing the pleasure of good cooking.
The "sea and mountains" risotto is a dish rich in nutrients thanks to its main ingredients: scampi and porcini mushrooms. Scampi are an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as zinc and selenium, which support the immune system. Porcini mushrooms, on the other hand, are known for their antioxidant properties and their fiber content, which is useful for digestion. Finally, arugula provides vitamins A and C, along with a good supply of calcium. In terms of calories, a serving of "sea and mountains" risotto can vary from 400 to 600 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portions. Consuming this dish in moderation and as part of a balanced meal can contribute to a healthy and tasty diet.
Freezing "sea and mountains" risotto is possible, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. First of all, it is advisable to freeze the risotto only if it has been prepared without fresh ingredients such as scampi and mushrooms, as these may not retain their texture and flavor once thawed. Additionally, it is important to let the risotto cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers suitable for freezing. When you wish to consume the frozen risotto, it is recommended to thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it slowly in a pan, adding a bit of broth or water to restore the right consistency. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy "sea and mountains" risotto even days after preparation, maintaining its flavor and creaminess.