Notes
FAVORITE EQUIPMENT
INGREDIENT NOTES
- Shallots: Shallots are recommended but half of a small, sweet, yellow, or white onion can be substituted.
- Pancetta: Pancetta is Italian bacon and can usually be found at butcher shops, the deli counter of specialty grocery stores, or occasionally with other packaged, cured meats like salami, prosciutto etc. The taste and texture of pancetta works best here but finely chopped American bacon can be substituted.
- Parmesan cheese: The cheese is best when freshly grated, however fresh, store-bought grated cheese can be substituted. I do not recommend using grated cheese from a canister since this type of cheese contains anti-caking ingredients that will change the texture of the risotto.
- For a vegetarian Instant Pot butternut squash risotto, use vegetable broth and omit the pancetta.
INGREDIENT PREP
- Peel and chop your butternut squash; chop the pancetta (if not already cubed; up to 7 days in advance); chop/mince sage, shallot and garlic (up to 1 day ahead)
- Grate the Parmesan cheese
- Measure the rice
STORING TIPS
Risotto is best just out of the Instant Pot but it reheats pretty well. Leftovers will keep in airtight food storage containers for up to 5 days. Store pancetta and risotto separately. Reheat both either in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a tablespoon or two of water to thin the risotto if needed.
FREEZING RISOTTO
It’s possible to freeze leftover risotto but the texture will not be as firm the second time around. Reheat defrosted risotto in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a bit of water or broth as needed to reach desired consistency.
NUTRITION NOTES
Recipe nutrition includes the crispy pancetta, sage; optional white wine was omitted.