Tea Scented Orzo Food

TOASTED ORZO WITH SAFFRON AND FENNEL

Steps:

• Soften saffron in 1 tablespoon hot water and set aside.
• Cook onion in oil in a 3-quart heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 6 minutes. Add orzo and toast, stirring frequently, until fragrant, 2 to 4 minutes.
• Stir in saffron mixture, remaining 2 cups water, and 1 teaspoon salt and simmer, covered, until orzo is just tender and liquid is absorbed, about 12 minutes.
• Sprinkle fennel bulb over orzo and let stand, covered, off heat 5 minutes. Stir fennel bulb into orzo, then serve sprinkled with fennel fronds.

TOASTED ORZO WITH PEAS AND PARMESAN

Steps:

• Heat butter in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; add onion and salt and cook, stirring frequently, until onion has softened and is beginning to brown, about 5 minutes.
• Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Add orzo and cook, stirring frequently, until most of orzo is lightly browned and golden, 5 to 6 minutes.
• Turn off heat and add vermouth and chicken broth.
• Go back to medium-high heat and bring to boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until all liquid has been absorbed and orzo is tender, 10 to 15 minutes.
• Gently stir in peas, cheese, nutmeg, and pepper to taste.
• Remove from heat and let it stand until peas are heated through, about 2 minutes.