Roasted Butternut Squash & Sage Risotto: Cooking Through Emotions
This creamy risotto combines the earthy flavors of sage and roasted butternut squash, making it the ideal dish for a chilly autumn evening. As you prepare each step, you’ll have the chance to focus on an emotion and give yourself space to feel and process it. This dish invites you to savor the flavors of fall while also honoring the emotions that need your attention. Enjoy the warmth of each bite, and let it serve as a comforting reminder that emotions, like risotto, require time and gentle care.
Ingredients:
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Arborio rice
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus 1 Parmesan rind
1-2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
Zest of 1/2 a lemon
Optional toppings: extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, fresh sage leaves for garnish & crispy sage croutons (recipe at the bottom)
Instructions:
Infuse Flavor & Set Your Intention:
In a small saucepan, bring the broth to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Add a small piece of Parmesan rind to the broth, allowing it to slowly release rich, cheesy undertones that add depth and umami to the risotto. As it simmers, take a moment to set an intention for this cooking experience, inviting a sense of presence and focus on your emotions. When the broth is ready, remove the Parmesan rind before using.
Pause to Reflect:
Before you embark on this cooking journey, take a gentle moment to breathe deeply. Allow yourself to settle into the present and set an intention for this session. It’s important to choose one emotion that resonates with you—perhaps it’s something you’ve been carrying, like tension or unease. Acknowledge this emotion with compassion, inviting it into your cooking experience as you embrace the joy of creating a meal.
Roast the Butternut Squash:
Preheat your oven to a comforting 400°F (200°C), creating a warm space for transformation. As you spread the vibrant, cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle it with a nurturing tablespoon of olive oil. Season it with salt and pepper, allowing those flavors to enhance its natural sweetness. As the squash roasts for 20-25 minutes, watch it evolve—softening and caramelizing, reminding you of your own capacity to change and grow.
Processing with Patience:
While the squash is in the oven, take a moment to reflect on your feelings. Just as the squash requires time to become tender and flavorful, your emotions also need time to shift and heal. Be gentle with yourself during this process.
Begin the Risotto:
In a large skillet or saucepan, warm another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it sauté for about 5 minutes, allowing its natural sweetness to emerge as it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic, stirring for another minute—it’s amazing how the aroma fills your kitchen and comforts your soul. Add the nutmeg enhancing the sweetness of the squash while adding a comforting, warm undertone.
Mindful Movement:
As you stir the onions and garlic, invite mindfulness into your movements. Each stir can be a reminder to treat your emotions with kindness. Embrace the rhythm of your spoon moving through the mixture, cultivating a sense of calm and serenity.
Add Rice and Wine:
Gently fold the Arborio rice into the pan, allowing each grain to toast for a minute or two. If you’ve chosen to include white wine, pour it in with care, watching it bubble and reduce, just as you might observe the way emotions can rearrange themselves over time.
Grounding Practice:
As the rice absorbs the wine, visualize it grounding your emotions. Imagine this risotto cradling your feelings, giving you the space to release what you don’t need while holding onto what nourishes you.
Slowly Add the Broth:
Begin adding warm vegetable broth one ladleful at a time, stirring continuously. Take your time with each addition, allowing the rice to absorb each scoop. It may take about 18-20 minutes, but be patient with the process, just as you would with your emotions.
Breathe with Each Ladle:
With each ladle of broth you add, take a deep, intentional breath. Celebrate the emotions that arise, whether they’re light or heavy. Allow yourself to fully experience them, accepting each feeling as part of your journey.
Add the Butternut Squash, Sage, and Cheese:
When the risotto reaches a creamy, comforting consistency, gently fold in the roasted squash, fragrant chopped sage, and a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning, letting your dish reflect the care and thoughtfulness you’ve put into it. As you complete the risotto, grate a small amount of lemon zest (about 1/2 teaspoon) over the finished dish. This bright note will enhance the warm, creamy flavors, lifting the richness of the risotto with a fresh, subtle citrus aroma.
Reflect on Completion:
As your dish comes together, take a moment to reflect on this beautiful transformation. Just like the risotto, your feelings have been nurtured and evolved through patience and care.
Serve Warm:
Scoop the risotto into bowls and consider garnishing with extra Parmesan and fresh sage for that lovely touch. Before diving into your meal, pause to acknowledge the love and intention you’ve poured into this process. Know that this meal not only nourishes your body but also honors the journey of emotions you've embraced along the way.
Crispy Sage Croutons:
Ingredients
2 cups of cubed day-old bread (sourdough or a rustic loaf work beautifully, giving you that warm, comforting texture)
2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter (for that homemade richness you crave)
1 tablespoon of fresh sage, finely chopped (or if you have dried sage on hand, 1 teaspoon will do just fine)
Salt, to taste (to bring out all those wonderful flavors)
Optional: a pinch of black pepper for a touch of warmth
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the Croutons: In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, olive oil or melted butter, chopped sage, salt, and optional black pepper. Take a moment to gently toss everything together; it doesn't have to be perfect! While you mix, let the anticipation build as the bread cubes soak up the flavors, making them more delicious.
Bake Until Crisp: Spread the lovingly coated bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place it in the center of your preheated oven and let it work its magic. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the croutons turn a gorgeous golden brown and are satisfyingly crispy. Remember to stir them halfway through; it's a simple step that helps ensure they turn out evenly, and it’s a good excuse to catch a whiff of that delightful aroma.
Cool and Add to Your Dish: After baking, let the croutons cool for just a moment. You’ll notice how they become even crunchier as they rest. Once they’ve cooled, sprinkle them generously over your creamy risotto. The contrast of their delightful crunch and the aromatic sage flavor will beautifully complement the rich butternut squash and herbs, bringing a sense of comfort to your dish.
These crispy sage croutons aren't just for risotto, though. They can be a cozy addition to soups, salads, or any heartwarming dishes you’re preparing. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep that wonderful crispness intact. Embrace the meditative crunch they bring and enjoy the simple joy of creating something special for yourself and your loved ones!