Vegetarian Hungarian Dinner: Creamy Paprika Mushroom Risotto with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon-Herb Polenta

Allergens

Contains no common allergens unless specified.

Ingredients

• For Risotto: 1.5 cups Arborio rice 6 cups vegetable broth, warmed 1/2 cup dry white wine 1/4 cup unsalted butter 1 medium onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced 2 tbsp sweet paprika 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper, to taste For Roasted Vegetables: 3 cups assorted seasonal vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes) 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/4 cup fresh herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary), chopped For Lemon
• Herb Polenta: 2 cups water 1 cup polenta 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 tbsp butter Zest and juice of one lemon Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. For Risotto:
2. In a large saucepan, warm the vegetable broth over low heat. Keep it warm throughout the cooking process.
3. In another pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic sauté until softened.
4. Stir in mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the white wine and simmer until evaporated.
6. Add the Arborio rice, stirring to coat. Cook for about 1 minute.
7. Gradually add the warmed vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more.
8. Once the rice is tender and creamy, remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside. For Roasted Vegetables:
9. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
10. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
11. Roast for about 25 minutes or until tender and slightly charred, tossing halfway through. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh herbs. For Lemon Herb Polenta:
12. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta and cook as per package instructions until tender.
13. Stir in Parmesan cheese, butter, lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Chef’s Insight

The combination of flavors and textures in this dish showcases Hungarian cuisine's emphasis on comforting, hearty meals that are also light and fresh.

Notes

Ensure that all ingredients are fresh and of good quality to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.