As a vehicle for leftover turkey, risotto makes a strong argument.

Arborio can take on an enormous amount of liquid, and it is a short grain variety.

Normally, you give it a little push with butter at the beginning and Parmesan cheese at the end.

Anything without much of a sauce is game: grilled mushrooms, baked asparagus, roasted squash.

If theres any left at this point, you’re free to even toss in a little gravy.

On a second burner, you want a stockpot with your broth or stock.

If youmade stock with your carcass, this is a great use.

(It doesnt need to be turkey stock; even vegetable stock would be good.)

Get your stock going to a nice simmer.

As it does, add more liquid, and just keep stirring.

Just keep adding stock until the rice is cooked.

Some chefs insist on a very loose risotto that falls onto a plate and spreads.

As it is cooking, youll need to taste it and see where you fall.

Generally, the process will take 20-25 minutes.

If the rice feels done before youve used all the liquid, thats OK.

If you run out of liquid, throw some more stock on the stove.

As you approach doneness, its time to throw in any vegetables and meat youd like to include.

Shred any meat you want using your hands, toss it in, and stir.

Stir them in and let them heat through.

Taste it and season to your liking with salt.

Risotto really needs to be enjoyed right away: its at its peak right now.

Garnish with some chopped parsley at the end for a nice finish.

Mostly, play around: This is a dish that will remove the intimidation from cooking.

Chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Melt butter in a large saute pan over medium high heat.

Saute the shallots and rice together, consistently moving them around for about 4 to 6 minutes.

Once the butter starts to smell nutty or turn brown, move to the next step.

Add more stock whenever the liquid in the pan evaporates.

Around the twenty-minute mark, check the rice for texture.

It is still raw inside, or chewy?

Do you like the texture, or would you prefer it creamier?

If youre happy with it, proceed to the next step.

If not, add more stock.

Right after you add the last ladle of stock, add in your vegetables and meat.

Season to taste, and continue stirring.

Once the liquid has evaporated, toss the Parmesan in, and stir through.

Remove from heat and serve immediately.