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Indulge in the rich and creamy flavours of Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon and Parmesan. This comforting dish is perfect for cosy evenings, offering a delightful combination of sweet pumpkin, salty bacon, and nutty Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients:

• 1 small pumpkin (about 500g), peeled, seeded, and diced
• 4 rashers of bacon, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, kept warm
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pumpkin: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place the diced pumpkin on a baking tray, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelised. Set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large, heavy-based pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains with the oil and bacon fat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine has been absorbed by the rice.
6. Add the Stock: Begin adding the warm stock one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 20 minutes until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.
7. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the roasted pumpkin, crispy bacon, and butter. Mix well to combine and heat through.
8. Finish with Parmesan: Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy this rich and flavourful Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon and Parmesan as a comforting main dish.

This recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin, the savoury crunch of bacon, and the creamy richness of Parmesan, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.