Risi E Bisi(Rice & Peas)
A creamy Venetian rice and peas dish infused with butter, onion, parsley, and Parmesan, perfect for comforting meals or casual gatherings with fresh, wholesome flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy 3-quart saucepan, sauté onion and parsley in 4 tablespoons of butter for 5 minutes.
- Add rice and sauté, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
- Add 2 cups water and bring to a boil, or until the liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a bit more butter at the end. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried works in a pinch. You can also substitute Arborio rice for a risotto-style dish. To enhance the flavor, try adding some garlic or lemon zest while sautéing the onions. This dish pairs beautifully with Zucchini With Basil, Pine Nuts And Parmesan Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Risi E Bisi warm, garnished with the remaining butter and grated Parmesan cheese for added richness. This dish is delicious alongside grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile main or side. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or a side of Italian Spaghetti Gravy to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the rice and heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Risi E Bisi(Rice & Peas) contains roughly 439 calories, with 29g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (197% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (103% of the Daily Value), and potassium (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2182mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
While you can use brown rice, it requires a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust your cooking time to about 40-45 minutes and use 2 1/2 cups of water. The texture will be different, but it adds a nutty flavor and more nutrients.
Is it possible to make Risi E Bisi vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegetarian. Simply ensure that your Parmesan cheese is animal rennet-free if you want it to be completely vegetarian. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just keep the peas separate and add them during reheating to maintain their color and texture. This makes it convenient for a quick meal on busy nights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).