Saffron Risotto with Speck: Italian Recipe

This golden risotto is an age old classic in Italy, specifically in the northern regions where it originated. The rich creaminess of the Parmesan and smokiness of the speck really shine through and pair perfectly with the unique and light flavor of the saffron. Not only is it a simple and relatively quick meal to make, it also results in a beautiful golden dish that can be the perfect highlight in any dinner!

A delicious-looking Saffron Risotto with Speck, plated and ready to eat. The risotto is golden brown and creamy, and the speck is smoky and flavorful, featured on Authentic Italian Recipes website.

Saffron Risotto with Speck

4.50 from 6 votes
This golden risotto is an age old classic in Italy, specifically in the northern regions where it originated. The rich creaminess of the Parmesan and smokiness of the speck really shine through and pair perfectly with the unique and light flavor of the saffron. Not only is it a simple and relatively quick meal to make, it also results in a beautiful golden dish that can be the perfect highlight in any dinner!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 7 oz Arborio rice
  • 1/2 of a small onion
  • 3-4 oz speck can be substituted with prosciutto if needed
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup white wine
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 traditional sized bag of saffron powder .1 gram or 1 big pinch 
  • 1-2 tbsp grated Parmesan depending on how cheesy you like it

Method
 

  1. Heat up a large pan with olive oil on medium heat. While that is warming up, mince the onion and cut the speck into small squares.
  2. Add the onions to the pan and saute them for a few minutes or until they are golden brown. Then add the speck and let it fry for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Next, add the rice and let it brown. Slowly pour in the wine and let it evaporate, then start adding in the broth little by little, making sure to not add more until the previous batch has been absorbed into the rice. About halfway through, add the saffron, mix well, and continue cooking in the broth until the rice becomes tender (you might have broth left over, or you may need a little more – it tends to vary slightly).
  4. Once the rice is completely cooked, add in the remaining butter and the Parmesan and mix until completely melted and the rice is coated.
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste, serve in dishes and top with a little more Parmesan if desired!

6 thoughts on “Saffron Risotto with Speck”

  1. 4 stars
    I thought making risotto was hard, but this recipe was a breeze. I’m familiar with the constant stir method for risotto but this was a lot less labour intensive. The saffron and speck? Perfect balance of aromatic and savory. Bravo!

  2. 4 stars
    Tried this out on a whim. Didn’t expect the risotto to come out so well. That saffron-speck combo? Absolutely nailed it. Definitely bookmarking this recipe.

  3. 5 stars
    This isn’t just risotto, it’s a culinary experience. The saffron gives it that luxurious taste and the speck brings just enough savory and texture to balance it out. It’s like dining in an nice Italian restaurant right at home.

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