Mushroom & Thyme 'Speltotto'
A comforting and deeply savory 'speltotto' that uses hearty spelt berries instead of traditional Arborio rice, creating a creamy, satisfying dish with earthy mushrooms and aromatic thyme.
For 3 servings
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped fresh thyme.
Add the uncooked spelt berries to the pot and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they are lightly fragrant.
If using, pour in the dry white wine and stir, allowing it to cook down and be fully absorbed by the spelt, about 1-2 minutes.
Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle (about 1/2 cup) at a time. Stir frequently, allowing each addition of broth to be almost fully absorbed by the spelt before adding the next ladle. Maintain a gentle simmer.
Continue adding broth and stirring for 25-35 minutes, or until the spelt berries are tender with a pleasant chew (al dente). You may not need all the broth, or you might need a little more; adjust based on the spelt's texture.
Once the spelt is tender and the 'speltotto' has a creamy consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) until melted and well combined. This is the 'mantecatura' step that adds richness and creaminess.
Taste and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The amount of salt needed will depend on the saltiness of your vegetable broth.
Divide the Mushroom & Thyme Speltotto into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Keep the broth warm: Warming your vegetable broth before adding it to the spelt helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature and prevents shocking the grains, leading to a creamier result.
- 2Stir frequently, but not constantly: While stirring is crucial for releasing starch and creating creaminess, you don't need to stir every single second. Stir every minute or so, especially after adding broth, to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- 3Adjust liquid as needed: The amount of broth can vary based on the spelt's age and how much moisture it absorbs. Trust your judgment; if the spelt is still too firm, add a little more warm broth or water.
- 4Don't overcook: Spelt should be al dente – tender with a slight chew, not mushy. Taste frequently towards the end of the cooking time to achieve the perfect texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Stir in cooked shredded chicken or pan-seared tofu cubes at the end for added protein. Smoked tofu would add another layer of umami.
Seasonal VegetablesSeasonal Vegetables
Incorporate other seasonal vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or roasted butternut squash. Add softer vegetables like spinach in the last few minutes of cooking.
Cheese & Herb SwapCheese & Herb Swap
Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese, gruyere, or nutritional yeast for a vegan cheesy flavor. Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Spelt is a whole grain packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Good Source of Nutrients
Spelt provides essential minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc, along with B vitamins, contributing to overall energy and well-being.
Immune-Boosting Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a fantastic source of antioxidants and B vitamins, and some varieties contain compounds that can support immune function.
Frequently asked questions
While best enjoyed fresh, you can make speltotto ahead of time. It will thicken as it cools. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of extra broth or water to restore creaminess.
