The Perfect Van Life Comfort Food

Looking for a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for your van kitchen? This Mushroom and Pea Risotto is your answer! Creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, risotto is an excellent comfort food that pairs wonderfully with many main dishes. While it does require some attention, the process is straightforward and rewarding.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 quart of low-sodium veggie or chicken stock
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 pound of mushrooms, chopped
• 1/3 cup dry white wine
• 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
• 3/4 cup peas (fresh is ideal, but frozen works too)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions for Mushroom and Pea Risotto:

1. Pour the stock into a saucepan over low heat to keep it warm.
2. In a large pot (like a Dutch oven), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once heated, add the sliced shallot and cook until softened. Then, add the sliced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the chopped mushrooms and sauté, stirring occasionally. When the mushrooms start to sweat, season with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and some ground pepper. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown.
4. Move the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the arborio rice. Stir it in and cook for about 2 minutes until the rice becomes translucent.
5. Pour in the white wine and cook until it is almost completely evaporated.
6. Begin adding 1/2 cup of the warm stock and stir frequently until it is nearly absorbed. Continue this process, adding stock gradually until the rice is al dente and most of the stock is used.
7. Stir in the peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Add the lemon zest and the remaining stock, cooking until the risotto is creamy and the stock is absorbed. Finally, stir in the butter for added richness.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately.

This Mushroom and Pea Risotto is not only a delectable side but also an impressive dish to showcase your cooking skills while living in your van. Enjoy the creamy textures and delightful flavors that make this risotto a favorite for any meal!