Saffron Risotto with Candied Orange and Prosciutto Crisps
A luxurious Italian risotto infused with delicate saffron threads, offering a warm, earthy aroma. Sweet, crispy prosciutto shards and vibrant candied orange segments provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, elevating this classic dish to something truly special.

Prep Time
55 min
Difficulty
Medium
Servings
4
Calories
650 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Gently warm the chicken broth in a medium saucepan and keep it simmering. Soak the saffron threads in about 100ml of the warm broth for 10 minutes.
~10 min - 2
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay the prosciutto slices flat on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until crispy. Remove from oven, let cool, then break into shards.
~12 min - 3
Finely chop the shallot and mince the garlic.
~2 min - 4
In a large saucepan, melt 30g of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
~4 min - 5
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
~1 min - 6
Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the edges of the grains look slightly translucent.
~2 min - 7
Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring, until it has evaporated completely.
~2 min - 8
Add the saffron-infused broth to the rice. Begin adding the warm chicken broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring continuously until each ladleful is absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is al dente and the risotto is creamy.
~20 min - 9
While the risotto is cooking, prepare the candied orange. Zest the orange and then peel it, removing all white pith. Slice the peeled orange into thin rounds. In a small saucepan, combine the orange slices with the granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of water. Simmer over low heat until the sugar syrup thickens and coats the orange slices, about 5-7 minutes.
~7 min - 10
Once the risotto is cooked, remove it from the heat. Stir in the remaining 20g of butter, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. The risotto should be loose and flowing.
~2 min - 11
Serve the saffron risotto immediately in warm bowls. Garnish each serving with the crispy prosciutto shards, candied orange slices, and a sprinkle of fresh orange zest.
~1 min
Tips
- Warm broth is key to a creamy risotto; it maintains the cooking temperature and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
- Don't overcook the risotto. It should have a slight bite (al dente) and a flowing, creamy consistency, not be stiff.
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