Truffled Lobster Risotto

-GEORGE-'s Note:

What could be better than the creamy smoothness of risotto with a hint of truffle combined with the elegance of lobster. If you need, or want, a show-off entree this is perfect for guests or that romantic dinner. There seems to be alot to this recipe but the result is worth it. I have prepared this using both warm and cold water lobster tails and I prefer the cold for its sweetness. For the truffle oil I have only used the black variety. This recipe is courtesy of Bon Appetit, January 1998

• Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 55 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 2 -8 ounces lobster tails, uncooked, total weight 1 lb
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth, low salt
• 3 tablespoons truffle oil, black or white
• 3/4 cup carrot, peeled and chopped small
• 1/4 cup shallot, chopped
• 1 cup arborio rice
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup fresh chives, chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425F or 218°C.
2. Prepare Lobster:.
3. Cook lobster in a large pot of simmering salted water until cooked through, about 10 minutes.
4. Transfer lobster to a bowl of cold water to cool. Drain Lobster.
5. Remove meat from shells, reserve shells.
6. Cut meat into 1/2" to 3/4" pieces. Set aside.
7. Break shells into large pieces. Place on baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
8. Place shells and 1 cup of chicken broth in blender and blend until finely chopped. Strain through a fine sieve. Reserve lobster broth, discard shells.
9. Prepare Risotto:.
10. Place remaining 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth in a sauce pan bring to a simmer, keep hot.
11. Heat 1 tablespoon of truffle oil in a heavy large sauce pan over medium heat.
12. Add carrots and shallots, saute for 2 minutes.
13. Add rice, stir to coat with oil, saute for 2 minutes.
14. Add brandy, reduce heat to medium low. Simmer until brandy is absorbed, stirring constantly. About 2 minutes.
15. Add lobster broth and about 2 cups of chicken broth, simmer until rice is just tender and mixture is creamy. Add remaining broth by 1/4 cup as needed, stiring often, about 20 minutes.
16. Add lobster and cream, stir until heated through.
17. Remove from heat.
18. Stir in 2 tablespoons of truffle oil and chives.
19. Season with salt and pepper to taste.