We often think of "making the most of our time" in grand, sweeping terms – landing the dream job, climbing the corporate ladder, finally writing that novel. But sometimes, the most impactful use of our time can be found in the simple act of creation, of nurturing ourselves and others through a mindful, present activity. Today, that activity for me was Chicken & Pea Risotto.
My cooking is typically functional and efficient. But today, I decided to slow down and truly engage with the process. I pulled out a cookbook, something I haven't done in ages, and meticulously followed the instructions. The chopping of the onions, the gentle cooking of the risotto rice, the rhythmic stirring as the broth was gradually absorbed – it was almost meditative.
Beyond the delicious aroma filling my kitchen, the real reward was the feeling of accomplishment. I hadn't just prepared a meal; I had dedicated my time to something tangible, something that nourished both body and soul. The act of creating, of transforming simple ingredients into a comforting dish, provided a sense of purpose and satisfaction that lingered long after the last bite.
There's a profound lesson in this simple experience: Maximizing our time isn't always about productivity in the traditional sense. It's about consciously choosing how we spend our moments and finding value in those choices. It's about recognizing that even seemingly small acts, like preparing a meal, can contribute to our overall well-being and sense of fulfillment.
Prep Time: Less than mins
Cook Time: 10-30 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil or sunflower
1 onion, cut in half, coarsely grated
2 garlic cloves, grated
250g arborio risotto rice
100mll white wine, dry vermouth or water
1 litre chicken stock, made with 1 stock cube
250g cooked leftover leftover, skin removed, cut into small pieces
200g frozen peas
75g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
25g butter
freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large, non-stick saucepan, warm the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic. Fry for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and just begin to color.
3. Add the risotto rice to the pan. Stir well for 30-40 seconds, ensuring the oil coats all the rice grains.
4. Pour in half of the wine and let it bubble for 30-40 seconds. Then, add all of the stock, bring to a boil, and stir thoroughly.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes. Stir frequently until the rice is almost tender and the risotto appears creamy.
6.Stir in the remaining wine, the chicken, and the frozen peas. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for another 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken and peas are hot and the rice is tender with a slight bite.
7. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the butter and cheese. Season with black pepper. Cover the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Final thoughts:
So, what's your risotto? What's the activity, however simple, that you can engage with mindfully and intentionally today? Maybe it's reading a book, taking a walk in nature, calling a friend, or learning a new skill. Whatever it is, embrace the opportunity to make good use of your time, not by striving for grand achievements, but by finding joy and purpose in the present moment. You might be surprised by the sense of accomplishment and renewal it brings. After all, sometimes the most rewarding uses of our time are the ones that nourish us the most.