Orzo alla Vodka with Mozzarella & Basil

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cook Time: 1 hour

Serving Size: 2-4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo

• 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 shallot, finely chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 4 oz. tomato paste

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1/4 cup vodka

• 4 cups chicken stock

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated

• 4 oz. mozzarella

• Basil for garnish

  
  

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat and sauté the chopped shallot until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a further 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the tomato paste and salt to the pot. Stir and deglaze with the vodka.

3. Stir in the orzo, then begin adding the chicken broth 1–2 cups at a time over high heat, stirring frequently. Continue adding broth as needed until the orzo is fully cooked.

4. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmigiano, and more salt to taste.

5. Plate and top with mozzarella, basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.