This prawn and shrimp risotto features succulent seafood in a creamy, rich rice base. The delicate shrimp and prawns add an irresistible texture, perfectly balanced by the subtle tang of lemon zest and the richness of Parmesan cheese.
The beautiful combination of seafood, creamy rice, and fresh parsley makes this dish not only satisfying but also visually appealing. It’s the perfect choice for an elegant dinner or a cozy family meal, with its comforting flavors that will warm you up from the inside out.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb (450g) large prawns, peeled and deveined
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup Arborio rice
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4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
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1/2 cup dry white wine
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Zest of 1 lemon
Directions:
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Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the prawns from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.
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Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly, and allow the rice to absorb the liquid.
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Gradually add the stock, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently and letting the rice absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is cooked, about 18-20 minutes.
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Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese, then return the prawns to the pan. Add salt, pepper, and lemon zest to taste.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Prawn Risotto with Shrimp
Prawn risotto with shrimp is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the richness of creamy risotto with the delicate flavors of succulent shrimp and prawns. This classic Italian dish is known for its velvety texture, savory taste, and the versatility it offers. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of Arborio rice, seafood, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of lemon zest creates a flavorful meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
The History of Risotto
Risotto is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the 16th century. The word “risotto” comes from the Italian word “riso,” meaning rice. The dish originated in the northern regions of Italy, particularly in Lombardy and Piedmont, where rice is a staple crop. Risotto is a versatile dish that can be adapted to various ingredients, from vegetables to meats and seafood. Its creamy texture is achieved by slowly adding stock to the rice, allowing it to absorb the liquid and release its starch, which creates the signature creaminess.
While risotto has evolved over time, the basic technique of cooking the rice remains the same. In recent years, seafood variations like the prawn risotto with shrimp have become incredibly popular due to the bright, fresh flavors seafood brings to the dish. This combination of shrimp and prawns with creamy risotto has become a favorite for seafood lovers worldwide.
Flavor Profile of Prawn Risotto with Shrimp
The flavor profile of prawn risotto with shrimp is a beautiful balance of rich, savory, and fresh notes. The Arborio rice provides a creamy and slightly nutty base that absorbs all the flavors from the stock and seasonings. The prawns and shrimp offer a sweet, delicate taste that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the rice. The addition of Parmesan cheese enhances the dish’s umami flavor, giving it a depth that complements the seafood.
A hint of lemon zest adds a refreshing, citrusy lift to the dish, balancing the creamy texture and enhancing the seafood’s natural sweetness. The final touch of fresh parsley offers a burst of color and a mild, herby note that brightens the overall flavor.
Tips for Preparing the Perfect Prawn Risotto
When preparing prawn risotto with shrimp, there are several tips to ensure the dish turns out perfectly every time:
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Use high-quality seafood: The quality of your shrimp and prawns will greatly affect the overall flavor of the dish. Opt for fresh or sustainably sourced seafood for the best results. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking.
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Invest in good Arborio rice: The key to a creamy risotto is the type of rice you use. Arborio rice is the most commonly used variety for risotto, as it releases starch while cooking, creating a creamy texture. Avoid using long-grain rice, as it does not have the same properties.
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Gradual stock addition: The key to a creamy risotto is adding the stock slowly, one ladleful at a time, and stirring frequently. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid and release its starch, resulting in the signature creamy consistency.
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Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough, so be sure to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink. They will continue to cook slightly in the risotto as it finishes.
Serving Suggestions for Prawn Risotto with Shrimp
Prawn risotto with shrimp is a dish that can stand on its own or be paired with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas for serving:
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With a green salad: Pair the risotto with a light, refreshing salad to balance out the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette works perfectly to complement the flavors of the risotto.
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With garlic bread: If you want to add a little extra indulgence, serve the risotto with garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
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With a crisp white wine: A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the seafood flavors in the risotto. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the dish and enhances the flavors of the seafood.
Variations of Prawn Risotto with Shrimp
While the traditional prawn risotto with shrimp is already a delicious dish, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some variations to consider:
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Add vegetables: Incorporating vegetables such as peas, asparagus, or spinach can add extra texture and flavor to the dish. These vegetables pair well with the shrimp and prawns, providing a contrast to the creamy rice.
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Use different seafood: While shrimp and prawns are the stars of this dish, you can also experiment with other types of seafood. Scallops, mussels, or lobster can be swapped in for a more luxurious twist.
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Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced fresh chili to the risotto. This will add a subtle spice that enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
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Go vegan: For a plant-based version of this dish, you can replace the shrimp and prawns with plant-based seafood alternatives or simply load up on extra vegetables. Use vegetable stock and omit the Parmesan cheese, or swap it for a dairy-free alternative.
Why You Should Try Prawn Risotto with Shrimp
Prawn risotto with shrimp is a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a weeknight meal with family, this dish is sure to impress. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and tender seafood make it a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and elegant.
The versatility of the dish also makes it easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with different variations, you’ll find that prawn risotto with shrimp is a recipe that works for any occasion.
Conclusion
Prawn risotto with shrimp is a dish that combines the best of both worlds: creamy, comforting risotto and the fresh, delicate flavors of seafood. It’s a dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers and anyone looking to impress with a flavorful, yet easy-to-make meal. By following a few simple tips, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a beautiful addition to any dining table. So whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, prawn risotto with shrimp is a fantastic choice that will leave everyone craving more.