Spinach Curry Risotto

All of the credit for this goes to my genius husband who decided that risotto needed it's place at the table without just being an afterthough for leftovers.  The best part about this dish is that it is hearty and warm (for winter) but still has the promise of spring with the chopped basil and spinach.  A splash of coconut milk would make it nice and creamy, but it is not a requirement.

Ingredients (serves 2 people)
1 small onion chopped
1 clove garlic minced
1 cup arborio rice
2 cups chicken stock
2 teaspoons curry paste (green curry is preferable)
2 cups spinach
4-5 basil leaves thinly sliced

1. Heat a large soup pot over medium high heat, add a few swirls of olive oil and bring to heat.  Also start heating chicken stock in a separate pot on the stove.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and stir to coat.  Allow the onions to cook until soft, about 6 minutes.
3. Add arborio rice to onion mixture and coat with oil.  Let the rice "brown" slightly for 1 minute.
4. Add a ladle of chicken stock to the rice mixture and stir.  Add more liquid when it starts to be absorbed by the rice.  This happens about every 5 minutes or so.
5. When rice has been cooking for about 20-25 minutes and will not accept any more liquid.  Add curry paste and a pinch of salt.  Stir in to the rice, adding a bit of extra chicken stock if necessary.
6. Remove from the heat, stir in spinach and let cook down for a minute or two.
7. Serve in bowl and top with slivered basil leaves.