Savory Oat Risotto

1. Heat chicken stock in a small saucepan over medium heat until simmering, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

2. Measure out 2 tablespoons spring onion tops and reserve.

3. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted. Add remaining spring onions to the skillet; cook and stir until wilted, about 1 minute. Add spring garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Stir oats into the skillet for 30 seconds. Add 2 tablespoons butter; cook and stir until oats are toasted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Pour in wine; cook and stir until wine has evaporated, about 3 minutes.

5. Ladle enough chicken stock into the skillet to cover oats; cook, stirring often, until stock is nearly absorbed, about 3 minutes. Repeat with remaining stock, stirring often until each addition is nearly absorbed before adding more, until oats are tender and creamy, about 24 minutes. Stir in reserved spring onion tops and cook, about 1 minute.

6. Reduce heat to low. Stir in remaining 1 tablespoon butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese until melted, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook's Notes:

Use homemade chicken stock for best results. You can skip the warming step, but the oats cook more evenly if it is warm.

Substitute 3 shallots for the spring onions if desired.

Substitute 2 garlic cloves for the spring garlic if preferred. Add once spring onions are soft, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

For extra flavor, add a bit of heavy whipping cream in step 6.