Pumpkin and Pecorino Wine Risotto: A Cozy Autumn Recipe with a Perfect Pecorino Pairing
Posted by Guidi Wines on
When it comes to creating a comforting autumn dish, nothing quite compares to a creamy pumpkin risotto — especially one infused with fresh thyme and a splash of Pecorino wine. Imagine the sweet, earthy flavors of pumpkin melding with a unique wine from Italy’s Abruzzo region, and you have a dish that’s sure to bring a smile to any table. This isn’t just any risotto; it’s a pumpkin and Pecorino wine risotto paired with Pecorino d’Abruzzo Barone di Valforte 2023 - a wine that’s racked up 90 points from none other than James Suckling! Ready to dive in?
The Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin, Thyme, and Pecorino Wine Risotto
This recipe is not only perfect for a cozy dinner but also makes you look impressively gourmet, even if you’re not a seasoned risotto pro.
Let’s take it step by step and pair it with the delicious Pecorino wine for a full Italian autumn experience.
Ingredients (for two portions):
- 160g Carnaroli rice
- 300g pumpkin (diced)
- 1 small piece of onion (finely chopped)
- ½ glass of Pecorino wine
- 600ml vegetable broth (kept hot)
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A few cubes of butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Start with the veggies: Finely chop the onion and dice the pumpkin. Heat a thick-bottomed pot with a little olive oil over medium heat, add the onion, and sauté until golden. Then, add the pumpkin, a pinch of salt, and fresh thyme leaves for an earthy kick. After a couple of minutes, pour in a ladle or two of hot broth and simmer until the pumpkin is tender.
- Toast the rice: In a separate non-stick pan, toast the Carnaroli rice over high heat, stirring constantly. The goal here is a slight opacity — once it reaches that pearly stage, splash in the Pecorino wine and stir until the wine evaporates, leaving a beautiful aroma. Then, transfer the rice to the pot with the pumpkin.
- Add the broth, one ladle at a time: This is where risotto requires a little patience! Add a ladle of broth to the rice mixture, stirring until absorbed before adding another. Continue this for about 17 minutes until the risotto is creamy and the rice is tender.
- Finish with seasoning and butter: Remove the pot from the heat, season with salt and pepper, and stir in a few cubes of butter along with a generous handful of grated Parmesan. Serve immediately with a garnish of thyme, if you’re feeling fancy.
And voilà! You’ve just made an Italian-inspired masterpiece.
Feel free to open a second one: no one’s judging!
The Perfect Wine Pairing: Pecorino d’Abruzzo Barone di Valforte 2023
To elevate this dish, there’s no better pairing than Pecorino d’Abruzzo Barone di Valforte 2023, an elegant white wine crafted in Abruzzo, a region as famous for its wines as it is for its landscapes. With a recent 90-point rating from wine expert James Suckling, this Pecorino is an absolute gem.
Why Pecorino d’Abruzzo?
This Pecorino is made from an ancient grape variety native to Abruzzo. Its origins trace back to at least the 13th century, and, fun fact: it’s named after the sheep (“pecora” in Italian) that used to munch on its vines. After centuries of being somewhat underrated, this grape has made a well-deserved comeback, thanks to its high quality and unique flavor profile.
The Barone di Valforte 2023: Tasting Notes
Barone di Valforte 2023 is not your average white wine. Its straw-yellow color and aromas of orange peel, spiced pears, chopped nuts, and a hint of persimmon make it as intriguing as it is delicious. This full-bodied wine has a distinct orange-fruit character with a fleshy, refreshing finish that brings out the best in both the wine and the risotto’s creamy texture. It’s as versatile as it is elegant, making it a fantastic choice for pairing with both rustic and refined dishes alike.
The Pairing: Why It Works
With this pumpkin and thyme risotto, the Barone di Valforte 2023 shines. The refreshing citrus and spiced pear notes complement the earthy pumpkin and thyme, while the nutty undertones harmonize with the Parmesan and buttery finish. It’s a pairing that balances richness with freshness, making each bite (and sip) an even better experience.
A Bit More About Pecorino d’Abruzzo
This wine is more than just a delightful pairing; it’s a true symbol of Abruzzo’s terroir. Pecorino d’Abruzzo earned its Denomination of Controlled Origin (DOC) status in 2001, signifying its quality and unique regional characteristics. The cool, breezy hillsides of Abruzzo and the rich soils give Pecorino wines a distinct structure and complexity, making them versatile and beloved by sommeliers and wine enthusiasts worldwide. The Barone di Valforte 2023, in particular, is a prime example of the region’s capabilities, crafted with both tradition and quality.
Final Thoughts
For a cozy evening meal or a special dinner, this Pumpkin and Pecorino Wine Risotto paired with Pecorino d’Abruzzo Barone di Valforte 2023 is the ultimate fall indulgence. With the earthy, comforting flavors of the risotto balanced by the refreshing complexity of the Pecorino, you’ll have a pairing that captures the heart of Italian autumn.
