Çaji Shkoder Rizotto

Çaji Shkoder Rizotto is a delightful Albanian dish combining fragrant flavors and rich ingredients into a hearty meal. Originating from Shkodra, a city steeped in history and known for its culinary diversity, this Rizotto highlights regional ingredients and age-old cooking methods passed down through generations. The dish owes its uniqueness to the juxtaposition of locally grown herbs and spices blended with the creamy consistency of traditional Risotto. Its popularity has spread beyond Shkodra, and it is now cherished by food enthusiasts worldwide.

Ingredients for Çaji Shkoder Rizotto

• Risotto Rice
• Chicken Broth
• Butter
• Olive Oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Chicken Breast
• Mushrooms
• Parmesan Cheese
• White Wine
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• Parsley

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by finely chopping the onion and garlic cloves. Slice the mushrooms, and cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. It’s essential to keep the broth hot to achieve the desired creamy texture in the risotto rice.
3. Heat a separate large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Sauté the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Cooking the Risotto

1. Introduce the risotto rice to the skillet, stirring it with the vegetables to coat each grain with the fat and flavor. Toast the rice until the edges become translucent.
2. Pour in the white wine, stirring continuously until the liquid is fully absorbed by the rice.
3. Slowly add a ladle of the hot chicken broth to the rice, stirring regularly. Once absorbed, add another ladle of broth. Repeat this process, ensuring each batch of liquid is absorbed before adding more.
4. As you reach the last two additions of broth, reintroduce the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet.
5. After about 18-20 minutes of cooking, taste the rice. It should be tender with a slight bite in the center.
6. Remove from heat and stir in a generous amount of parmesan cheese and a knob of butter. These will give the risotto its signature creamy consistency.

To Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. The Çaji Shkoder Rizotto can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a glass of crisp white wine to complement its flavors. This dish can be savored as a comforting meal for both special occasions and cozy dinners at home. The balance between the richness of the parmesan and the vibrant taste of the parsley makes each bite a delightful experience.