The recipe for risotto, leek and bacon

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## 👨‍🍳 Instructions

### 1. **Cook the Bacon**

In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until **crispy and golden**. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.

### 2. **Sauté the Leeks**

Add the sliced leeks to the pan and cook over medium heat for about **5–7 minutes**, or until soft and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent browning — you want them soft and sweet, not caramelized.

### 3. **Toast the Rice**

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir well to coat in the leek and bacon fat mixture. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the edges of the rice become slightly translucent.

### 4. **Deglaze with Wine (Optional)**

Pour in the white wine and stir until it’s mostly absorbed. This adds a lovely depth of flavor but can be skipped if preferred.

### 5. **Add the Broth — Slowly**

Begin adding the warm broth **one ladle at a time**, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more.

This slow addition of liquid is what gives risotto its signature creaminess — so don’t rush!

Continue this process for about **18–20 minutes**, or until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente).

### 6. **Finish with Cheese, Butter, and Bacon**

Once the rice is creamy and cooked, stir in the **Parmesan**, **butter**, and reserved **bacon**. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

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## 🌿 Garnish and Serve

Spoon into bowls and top with a sprinkle of **fresh parsley** or chives for color and brightness. Serve hot — and get ready for comfort in every bite.

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## 🍽️ Serving Ideas

Pair this risotto with:

* A crisp **green salad**
* A glass of **dry white wine**
* Roasted or grilled vegetables on the side

It’s hearty enough to be a main course, but elegant enough for a dinner party.

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## 🔁 Variations to Try

* **Make it vegetarian**: Skip the bacon and use a splash of smoked paprika for depth.
* **Add mushrooms**: Sauté mushrooms with the leeks for an earthy twist.
* **Creamier texture?** Stir in a spoonful of mascarpone or cream cheese at the end.

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## 🧠 Final Thoughts

This **Leek and Bacon Risotto** is a rustic yet refined dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion when you want something cozy but a little bit special.

Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite at your table. 🥓🍚💛

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**Want a printable version or step-by-step photo guide for this recipe?** Let me know, and I’ll be happy to send one your way!