Cooking Method: Simmering

Lemony Shrimp Risotto

I made this Lemony Shrimp Risotto in my Instant Pot, but have also included the stovetop instructions. I have to say, I love making risotto in the Instant Pot because it's fast and you don't have to stand there and stir it. The lemon adds a bright and tangy note to the shrimp.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Yields: 4 Servings

Beef Ramen Bowls

Beef Ramen Bowls make a great weeknight meal. Ground beef gets sautéed with green onions and mixed with a sweet and spicy sauce. It's full of vibrant flavors, quick and inexpensive.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Cook: 15 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

Gochujang-Braised Chicken and Crispy Rice

I had some chicken legs leftover and searched for something interesting to do with them. I found this recipe for Gochujang-Braised Chicken and Crispy Rice. Although it seems like a long list of ingredients, it's rather easy to prepare. The spicy Gochujang paste gives it the perfect amount of heat. The crispy rice is mixed with spices, made into patties, and fried. My husband thought the sauce should be thicker, which can be achieved by taking the drumsticks out of the pan and whisking in some cornstarch.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 15 mins
  • Cook: 1 hrs 10 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

Herby Buttered Mushrooms and Wild Rice

Mushrooms have a "meaty" texture and a strong umami flavor. Umami is the fifth basic taste and was discovered by a Japanese scientist. Umami in Japanese means “a pleasant savory taste." Herby Buttered Mushrooms and Wild Rice is a delicious satisfying dish. The earthy, nutty flavor of the wild rice marries well with the buttery mushrooms.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Yields: 4 Servings

Roasted Tomato Risotto with Basil and Parmesan

As most of you know, I love risotto. I made this Roasted Tomato Risotto with Basil and Parmesan, which is delicious. Roasting the cherry tomatoes adds a depth of flavor. You could also use these tomatoes for pasta. Make sure you boil the water in advance. You may not have to use all of the boiling water; the last ½ cup is for adjusting the consistency of the risotto at the end, if needed.It's also important to stir the risotto vigorously, which coaxes starch from the rice for a creamier consistency.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Yields: 4 Servings

Risotto à la Carbonara

My family is obsessed with carbonara. It's one of the things we make when there's "nothing to eat". I have made many different versions of carbonara, which apparently really pisses off some Italians. The New York Times cooked up the controversy in Italy after tinkering with the recipe for the classic Roman dish pasta carbonara. There is also Carbonara wars: why Italy is right to be mad about a French farfalle travesty. Clearly, I do not care and always "tinker" with my damned carbonara! So I made this Risotto à la Carbonara in my Instant Pot (I have also included the stovetop version). All I can say is that I saw my guest's eyes roll back in there head. It's just that good. 

By Leslie Blythe

  • Yields: 6 - 8 Servings

Crispy Gnocchi with Burst Tomatoes & Mozzarella

This Crispy Gnocchi with Burst Tomatoes & Mozzarella is easy and insanely good. The recipe can easily be cut in half. Yum, yum, yum...!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Cook: 20 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

French-Cut Green Beans With Dill Butter

I love green beans and I adore fresh dill. These French-Cut Green Beans with Dill Butter are a match made in heaven. Frenching green beans is easy, if you have a French Cut Green Bean Cutter. French cut green beans are basically julienned, or thinly sliced green beans. Yes, you can do it by hand, but why?!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 15 mins
  • Cook: 25 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

Baked Broccoli Polenta with Roasted Mushrooms

I saw this recipe for Baked Broccoli Polenta with Roasted Mushrooms in Saveur magazine. I have to say, it was outstanding. You make the polenta, stir in roasted broccoli and grated Parmesan and put it in a loaf pan, refrigerate over night.  Then it's sliced and roasted  and serve with roasted mushrooms. It calls for maitake mushrooms, but I used cremini mushrooms. This would be a great addition to your holiday meal for your vegetarian guests or all guests! Oh, and it's gluten free!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Yields: 4 Servings

Mushroom Risotto with Peas & Spinach

I often make Mushroom Risotto, but this time, I added peas and spinach at the very end. I actually made it in the Instant Pot, which is super easy and doesn't involve all the stirring. I included both instructions if you want to make it on the stovetop.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Yields: 6 Servings