Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the Adriatic with Croatia's famed Black Risotto. This striking dish, also known as Crni Rižot, captures the essence of the sea with its jet-black hue derived from squid ink. Slow-cooked Arborio rice is infused with a medley of fresh seafood, including tender squid, succulent shrimp, and briny clams, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Enhanced with garlic, onions, and aromatic herbs, each spoonful is a journey through the coastal flavors of Croatia. Whether enjoyed as a hearty main course or a tantalizing appetizer, Black Risotto promises an unforgettable dining experience that transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Adriatic.

Here's a recipe for Croatia's Black Risotto:

Ingredients:

• 400g Arborio rice
• 1 liter fish or seafood stock
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 300g fresh squid or cuttlefish, cleaned and finely chopped
• 2-3 tablespoons squid ink (you can find this in specialty stores or fish markets)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1- Heat the fish or seafood stock in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.

2- In a separate large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

3- Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir well to coat the grains with the oil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent.

4- Pour in the white wine and stir until it is absorbed by the rice.

5- Add the chopped squid or cuttlefish to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to turn opaque.

6- Dissolve the squid ink in a small amount of warm water and add it to the pan, stirring well to evenly distribute the ink and achieve the desired black color.

7- Begin adding the warm fish or seafood stock to the rice mixture, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is cooked al dente, which usually takes about 18-20 minutes.

8- Season the risotto with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.

9- Once the risotto is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a minute or two.

10- Serve the black risotto hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your Croatia Black Risotto, a delightful dish that showcases the rich flavors of the sea!

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients in the Croatia Black Risotto recipe:

Arborio rice (per 100g cooked):

• Calories: 96
• Carbohydrates: 21.05g
• Protein: 2.02g
• Fat: 0.19g
• Fiber: 0.4g

benefits:

• Rich source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• Contains small amounts of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Low in fat and cholesterol, promoting heart health.
• Provides dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety.

Fresh squid (per 100g raw):

• Calories: 92
• Carbohydrates: 3.01g
• Protein: 18.38g
• Fat: 1.1g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, vital for muscle building and repair.
• Low in fat and calories, making it a healthy protein option.
• Contains essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, which supports nerve function and red blood cell production.
• Rich in minerals like iron and zinc, important for immune function and metabolism.

Olive oil (per 1 tablespoon, 14g):

• Calories: 119
• Fat: 13.5g
• Saturated fat: 1.86g
• Monounsaturated fat: 9.85g
• Polyunsaturated fat: 1.42g
• Vitamin E: 1.94mg (10% of DV)

benefits:

• Rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Contains antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Provides energy and supports the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Onion (per 100g):

• Calories: 40
• Carbohydrates: 9.34g
• Protein: 1.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Fiber: 1.7g

benefits:

• Good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
• Contains flavonoids and antioxidants that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
• Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to meals for flavor and nutrition.
• Provides vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production.

Garlic (per 100g):

• Calories: 149
• Carbohydrates: 33.06g
• Protein: 6.36g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Fiber: 2.1g

benefits:

• Contains compounds like allicin, which have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, supporting immune function.
• Rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Contains sulfur compounds that may have cancer-fighting properties.

Squid ink (per 2-3 tablespoons):

• Calories: 10-15 (approximate)
• Carbohydrates: 2-3g (approximate)
• Protein: 0-1g (approximate)
• Fat: 0-1g (approximate)

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
• Rich in iron, which is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production.
• Provides unique flavor and color to dishes, enhancing their visual appeal and taste.
• May have antibacterial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the body.

White wine (per 1 cup, 8 fl oz):

• Calories: 121
• Carbohydrates: 3.82g
• Protein: 0.1g
• Alcohol: 9.6g
• Potassium: 127mg

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which may have anti-aging and heart-healthy benefits.
• Moderate consumption may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.
• Adds flavor and acidity to dishes, enhancing their taste and aroma.
• Provides relaxation and enjoyment when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on factors such as brand, cooking methods, and specific ingredients used. It's always a good idea to double-check with the specific products you use and adjust your calculations accordingly. Additionally, the nutritional values provided are approximate and may differ slightly from actual values due to variations in ingredients and cooking methods.