Crni Rižot (Black Risotto)
A striking and flavorful seafood risotto made with squid ink, giving it its characteristic black color and rich, oceanic taste. This dish is a beloved classic along the Croatian coast.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Arborio or Carnaroli rice
- 400 g Squid or cuttlefish(cleaned, bodies cut into rings, tentacles chopped)
- 2 tbsp Squid ink
- 1 medium Shallots or small onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 150 ml Dry white wine
- 1 liter Fish or vegetable broth(warm)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tbsp Parsley(freshly chopped)
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the squid: Clean the squid, reserving the ink sacs. Cut the bodies into rings and chop the tentacles. If using pre-packaged ink, skip this step.
💡 Tip: Ensure all grit is removed from the squid. - 2
Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Cook squid: Add the squid rings and tentacles to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they just start to turn opaque. Do not overcook.
- 4
Toast the rice: Add the rice to the pan and stir for 1-2 minutes until the grains are slightly translucent around the edges.
- 5
Deglaze and add ink: Pour in the white wine and stir until it has evaporated. Stir in the squid ink until evenly distributed.
- 6
Cook the risotto: Begin adding the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until each ladleful is almost completely absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is al dente.
💡 Tip: Stirring releases the starch from the rice, creating a creamy texture. - 7
Finish and serve: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped parsley and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
💡 Tip: A small knob of butter can be added for extra richness, though not strictly traditional.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use fresh squid for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Don't rinse the rice before cooking; the starch is essential for creaminess.
- ✓Keep the broth warm throughout the cooking process.
- ✓Taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
🔄 Variations
- Add a few shrimp or mussels in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- A splash of brandy can be used instead of white wine for deglazing.