Risotto alla Parmigiana

Risotto alla Parmigiana features Arborio rice cooked in a flavorful broth with grated Parmesan cheese and eggplant. The eggplant is usually fried or grilled and then added to the risotto and the grated Parmesan cheese. The dish is typically seasoned with garlic, onion, and sometimes white wine. The result is a creamy, rich, and flavorful dish often served as a main course or a side dish. The dish is well known for its rich and creamy texture and delicious flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup of white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of Arborio rice
• 1 eggplant, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the broth and white wine (if using) in a medium saucepan until hot but not boiling. Keep it on low heat.
2. In a separate large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir well to coat the rice with the oil and onion mixture.
4. Cook the rice for about 2-3 minutes or until it becomes translucent.
5. Add a ladleful of the hot broth to the rice, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed.
6. Continue to add the broth, a ladleful at a time, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked through but still al dente. (about 18-20 minutes)
7. While the rice is cooking, heat a separate pan over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant cubes and cook until they are softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the cooked eggplant cubes, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
9. Cover the pan and let the risotto sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
10. Serve the risotto and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Note: You can adjust the consistency of the risotto by adding more or less broth. And you can also add different vegetables to the risotto, like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.