Ham Pea Risotto: 5 Steps to a Delicious Comfort Meal

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Ham Pea Risotto has become a staple in my kitchen, offering a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly suits any comfort food craving. This creamy oven-baked risotto, made with arborio rice, tender ham, and vibrant peas, is an inviting dish that warms both the heart and the belly. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, it’s ideal for a busy weeknight meal. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious ham pea risotto recipe that promises to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Ham Pea Risotto

This ham and pea risotto is not just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

It’s a quick ham pea risotto preparation that takes just 30 minutes!
The creamy ham pea risotto is rich in flavor, thanks to the combination of ham and Parmesan.
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham, making it a great option for meal planning.
It’s a one-pot ham and pea risotto that simplifies cleanup.
This dish is versatile; you can customize it with fresh herbs or vegetables.
With its comforting texture, it’s a popular choice for family dinners.

Ingredients for Ham Pea Risotto

Gather these items:

300 g arborio rice
1 tbsp olive oil
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder or 2 garlic cloves (peeled and minced)
¼ teaspoon celery salt
150 g cooked ham chunks (or shredded ham hock)
700 ml just-boiled strong chicken stock
115 g frozen peas
50 g grated (shredded) Parmesan
juice of ½ lemon
extra grated Parmesan
to taste ground black pepper
to garnish chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

How to Make Ham Pea Risotto Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C fan/425°F/gas mark 7. Place a lidded casserole dish in the oven to heat up.
Step 2: Once the casserole dish is hot, remove from the oven and remove the lid (leave a tea towel on the lid so you don’t accidentally pick up the hot lid).
Step 3: Carefully add the rice to the dish, along with the oil, pepper, garlic, celery salt, ham, and hot stock. Stir together, place the lid on the pan and put in the oven for 17 minutes.
Step 4: Remove from the oven, add the peas, Parmesan, and lemon juice, and stir together. Place the lid back on and return to the oven for a further 3 minutes until the rice is tender.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and give it a taste. Add a little more salt and pepper if needed (the level of saltiness depends on how salty your ham and stock are).
Step 6: Serve the risotto topped with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and fresh parsley.

Delicious ham pea risotto served in a bowl

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ham Pea Risotto

Keep these in mind:

For an even creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream just before serving.
Use high-quality chicken stock for a richer flavor.
Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for added freshness.
Allow the risotto to rest for a few minutes before serving to help it thicken.

Best Ways to Serve Ham Pea Risotto

This ham pea rice dish can be served as a main course or as a side. Here are a few ideas:

Pair it with a crisp green salad for a delightful dinner.
Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Top with a poached egg for a breakfast twist.

How to Store and Reheat Ham Pea Risotto

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. This creamy ham pea risotto can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken stock or water to the risotto in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until warmed through. This method helps maintain the creamy consistency!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Pea Risotto

What’s the secret to perfect Ham Pea Risotto?

The secret to perfect ham and pea risotto lies in using quality ingredients and stirring frequently while it cooks. This ensures the rice releases its starch, resulting in that creamy texture we all love.

Can I make Ham Pea Risotto ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this ham and pea arborio rice in advance. Just follow the steps, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ham Pea Risotto?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your stock is hot when adding it to the rice. Also, resist the urge to rush the cooking process; let the rice absorb the liquid gradually for the best results.

Variations of Ham Pea Risotto You Can Try

There are many delicious variations you can explore:

For a gourmet touch, try adding truffle oil or sautéed mushrooms.
Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of flavor.
Replace ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat and add in more vegetables like spinach or asparagus.

Ingredients for ham pea risotto including arborio rice, ham, and peas

For more delicious recipes, check out Gingerbread Tiramisu or Creamy White Wine Mushroom Chicken. You might also enjoy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a side dish, Honey Roasted Root Vegetables pair wonderfully with this risotto.

Lastly, don’t forget to try Creamy Vegetable Soup for a warm and satisfying starter!