Return To Summer 1996 Index
Return To Summer 1996 Index
Having to watch my weight constantly, I hate having to give up things I enjoy. As the saying goes ' a minute on the lips, means months on the hips' (I think that phrase was invented for me actually), so I am constantly looking out for alternatives.
Apparently John Ash, Culinary Director at Fertzer Vineyards in California has come up with a rather clever substitute. He reckons;
"It allows you to use no cream at all but still gives you most of the richness and mouth-feel that cream provides,".
That sounds like a challenge and a half - So I decided to put it to the test. I made a Tagatelli Carbanara dish (one of my many favorites), and surprisingly enough it was very good, the wine gives on overall richness of flavour and the fact that I knew it was healthy added to my enjoyment. Anyway try it -
In the saucepan, heat the oil and add the onions and sauté over moderate heat until soft but not coloured. Add rice and wine, cover and simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed (about 25 minutes). Cool slightly, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and purée. With the motor running, add more stock ( up to 350ml/12 fl oz) until you reach desired consistency. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Why not make a double batch and freeze it in 8 x 200ml portions? It keeps indefinately.
