This broiled cauliflower risotto might just be the most comforting dish after mac& cheese. It's rich and cheesy, and the chili kick makes it stand out.
For the broiled cauliflower: Preheat the oven to broil and set a rack in the upper third of the oven (do not place the rack at the highest position.) Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly oil the aluminum foil.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, salt, and crushed red pepper. Spread the cauliflower mixture over the baking sheet and broil for 10 minutes, or until the cauliflower is browned in spots. Remove from the oven and set aside.
For the risotto: In a saucepan set over medium heat, bring the broth to a slow simmer. Lower the heat, cover, and keep warm.
In a large saute pan or a cast-iron braiser set over medium-low heat, melt the butter in the olive oil. Add the celery and shallot and cook, stirring, until soft, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the risotto rice and stir for 2 minutes, until the grains are translucent around the edges. Add the wine and stir vigorously while the wine is bubbling up, scraping down the bottom of the pan to loosen the caramelized bits. Simmer until the wine is fully absorbed.
Add 1 ladleful of the broth and simmer, stirring from time to time, until the broth is almost completely absorbed. Continue adding broth, one ladleful at a time, allowing each ladle to be absorbed before adding more.
When there's about ½ cup (125 ml) of broth left, stir in the broiled cauliflower, saving a few florets to garnish each serving, if desired. Stir for a minute to reheat the cauliflower. Add ¼ cup (60 ml) broth, then stir in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Taste the risotto and adjust the seasoning if needed. Stir in the remaining broth. The risotto should now be loose and super creamy. Cover and turn off the heat. The risotto can stand for about 5 minutes but should be served as soon as possible for the best texture.
SERVING: Serve the broiled cauliflower risotto in warm bowls, then garnish each serving with saved cauliflower florets, fresh thyme leaves, drizzle of flavorful extra-virgin olive oil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper, if desired. Serve immediately.
STORAGE: This broiled cauliflower risotto is best enjoyed within minutes of being made. If you do have leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, transfer to a nonstick skillet, add a couple tablespoonfuls of broth or water and warm up over medium-low until the risotto is loose and hot. Serve immediately.
MAKE IT VEGETARIAN: Substitute vegetable stock.
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