Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large red onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules
- 250 g (8.8 oz) arborio rice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Canned Goods
- 1 x 400 g (14 oz) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 x 400 g (14 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 750 ml (3 cups) vegetable stock
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the diced red onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften but do not brown.
- Add seasoning: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, onion granules, and garlic granules. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to evenly coat the vegetables and release the spices’ aroma.
- Toast the rice: Add the arborio rice to the pan and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking. This step enhances the risotto’s nutty flavor.
- Add tomatoes and beans: Pour in the chopped tomatoes along with the drained and rinsed kidney beans. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer with stock: Pour in half of the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently, stirring frequently until the liquid is nearly absorbed.
- Finish cooking the risotto: Add the remaining vegetable stock and continue to simmer, stirring often, until the rice is al dente and the risotto reaches a creamy consistency with most of the liquid absorbed.
- Season and serve: Stir in the fresh thyme leaves, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- For a spicier risotto, increase the Cajun seasoning to 3 tablespoons.
- Use fresh thyme if possible for a brighter herbal flavor; dried thyme can be substituted by reducing quantity to 1 teaspoon.
- If you prefer a thinner risotto, add extra vegetable stock or water until desired consistency is reached.
- Stir the risotto frequently to prevent sticking and to help release the rice’s creamy starches.
- This risotto is naturally vegan and gluten-free if using gluten-free vegetable stock.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Vegan