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–+ servings

Easy Italian Lemony Prawn & Pea risotto

This beginner-friendly prawn risotto combines creamy Arborio rice with juicy prawns, a hint of chili, and zesty lemon for a deliciously comforting dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 400g grams prawns shell-on, defrosted if frozen
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 red chili (deseeded), half sliced, half finely chopped
  • 1 ½ liters fish stock
  • 50 grams butter
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 300 grams risotto rice (e.g., arborio)
  • 1 small glass white wine
  • 200 grams frozen peas
  • 1 lemon Zest and juice

Instructions
 

Prep the Stock

  • Peel the prawns, keeping the shells and heads.
    Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large saucepan.
    Add the prawn shells and heads along with the sliced chili.
    Fry until the shells and heads turn a darker color and become aromatic.
    Pour in the fish stock, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Cook the Rice

  • In a separate pan, melt 25g of butter over medium heat.
    Add the chopped onion and cook gently for 8-10 minutes until it becomes soft but not browned.
    Stir in the risotto rice until it’s well-coated with the butter.
    Cook, stirring constantly, until the rice is shiny and the edges look translucent.
    Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until it evaporates completely.

Combine and Cook

  • Begin adding the hot stock to the rice, one ladleful at a time.
    Stir frequently and wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more stock.
    After about 15 minutes, stir in the prawns and frozen peas.
    Continue adding stock and stirring for about 25-30 minutes, until the rice is al dente (with a slight bite in the center) and the risotto is creamy.
    Once the prawns are cooked and have turned pink, stir in the finely chopped chili, lemon juice, and the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil.

Finish and Serve

  • Let the risotto rest for a few minutes.
    Before serving, sprinkle the lemon zest on top for a fresh, zesty touch.
    Enjoy your creamy, flavorful prawn risotto!
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