Butternut Squash Risotto

Ingredients and Weight:

• Butternut Squash - 1 large (approx. 2 pounds)
• Risotto Rice - 2 cups
• Chicken Stock - 4 cups
• Butter - 3 tablespoons
• Grated Parmesan Cheese - 1/4 cup
• Salt and Pepper - to taste
• Fresh Thyme - 1 sprig (optional)
• Heavy Cream or Milk - 1/2 cup (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 40-50 minutes
• Total: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Peel and cube the butternut squash into small pieces.
2. In a large saucepan, bring chicken stock to a boil and reduce to a low simmer.
3. In another pot, melt butter and add the risotto rice. Stir for a minute until the grains are coated with butter.
4. Add the hot chicken stock, a ladleful at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the stock before adding more.
5. When the rice starts to become tender, add the cubed butternut squash and continue cooking.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and add fresh thyme if desired.
7. When the rice is almost cooked, stir in the heavy cream or milk (if using).
8. Lastly, stir in the grated parmesan cheese.
9. Serve immediately in warm bowls.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)

• Calories: Approx. 450-500 calories per serving (depending on additional ingredients)
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 65-75g
• Protein: 12-15g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and rich texture from the combination of risotto rice and butternut squash.
• The parmesan cheese adds a salty and cheesy flavor that is typical of American cuisine.
• A dish that can be easily customized with different toppings or additional flavors.

User Comments:

1. "This is an excellent combination of flavors! The butternut squash adds a unique touch to the traditional risotto."
2. "The creamy texture and the rich flavor make this dish a favorite at our dinner table."
3. "I love how easy it is to make this dish, yet it tastes like a high-end restaurant meal."
4. "The addition of fresh thyme gives this dish a nice herbal note."
5. "Great dish for colder weather, provides a comforting and hearty meal."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use low-sodium chicken stock to control the salt content.
• Adjust the heat of the stove to maintain a gentle simmer to prevent the rice from becoming sticky or overcooked.
• Taste frequently during cooking to adjust seasoning according to preference.
• For a more decadent version, consider adding a sprinkle of truffle salt or fresh herbs on top before serving.