Stone Life June July 2014 | Page 34

RECIPE FOR LIFE Enjoy a tasty summer night he great outdoors not only offers a wonderful place to enjoy our food but bears the fruits and produce which make it a wonderful culinary season. During June and July there is a vast array of ingredients which are in season and at their best, whether it be for firing up the barbecue or packing up a picnic, you will be spoilt for choice T at what is available. Why not have a go at creating your own version of creamy risotto with squid, monkfish and fragrant fennel. This one-dish supper, that only needs crusty bread for an accompaniment, is ideal for a laid back dinner party that can be enjoyed out on the patio al fresco style. Seafood fennel risotto Method 1. Put the saffron threads in a large, wide, heavybased pan over a moderate heat and stir constantly until they just begin to give off their aroma. Pour in the fish stock and bring to the boil. Remove the pan from the heat, cover and set aside to infuse. 2. To prepare the squid, pull the head, tentacles and insides from the bodies. Discard the head and the hard beak from the base of the tentacles. Pull out the clear quill from the bodies, and discard. Use your fingers to rub the thin grey skin from the 34 June/July 2014 bodies, holding them under running water. Slice the bodies into thin strips and chop the tentacles. Set aside. 3. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a frying pan. Add the monkfish pieces and quickly fry on all sides until lightly browned. Remove the fish and set aside. Add the remaining oil to the pan. Add the garlic and onion and cook over a moderate heat for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the fennel and continue cooking until the vegetables are softened but not brown, about 3 minutes. Serves: 4 Preparation time: 30 mins Cooking tim e: 35 mins