Rice and Peas (Risi e Bisi)

In the Padua area, where this rice is prepared with goose meat preserved in its fat, it is called risi e bisi con l'oca in onto (wet risotto with green peas and goose in its own fat).

Recipe Ingredients:

12 ounces long grain rice
2 1/2 ounces butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 ounces lean pancetta
1 small onion
3 pounds fresh peas
1 ounce parsley
6 tablespoons Parmigiano
1 1/4 quarts beef broth
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Cooking Directions:

1. Shell the peas.
2. Make a battuto with pancetta and onion: put in a saucepan, add half the butter and the oil, and lightly fry until the pancetta melts and the onion loses its crunchiness. Do not let it become brown. Add the green peas and a ladle of broth. Stir and let cook on low heat for about 10 minutes (if the peas are tough cook for 5 more minutes).
3. When the peas are halfway cooked, add all the broth, bring to a boil, add the rice and cook over medium heat. Stir frequently, adding additional broth if necessary (especially toward the end). Remember that the result should be fluid enough to form a wave on the dish when served.
4. Once al dente, turn the heat off, mix in the remaining butter, the Parmigiano, parsley, a pinch of pepper and serve.

Makes 8 servings.

Recipe courtesy of The Italian Trade Commission.