VEGETABLE RISOTTO WITH PESTO

Steps:

• Begin by melting the butter in a large saucepan or wok.
• Add the onion and fry for a few minutes.
• Add the pepper to the onion and fry for another two or three minutes.
• Turn the heat down to medium-low.
• Add the rice and stir to coat.
• The rice grains should turn from cloudy to clear.
• Begin adding the bouillon, about 1/4 cup at a time.
• It's important to keep stirring, as the rice will absorb the liquid quickly and could burn if left unattended.
• After about 10 minutes, add the chopped tomato and the zucchini.
• After 20 minutes add the mushrooms.
• Continue to add bouillon when the rice has absorbed it.
• After about 25 minutes add the peas.
• The bouillon should be just about up by now.
• The rice usually takes about 25-30 minutes to finish cooking.
• To test for doneness, take a bite.
• It could be a bit chewy, but shouldn't be really hard.
• After the bouillon has been used up and the rice is done, stir in the pesto.
• Mix well.
• You can add salt and pepper to taste.
• Mixing in some extra grated parmesan makes the rice a bit creamier.
• Top with a bit of parmesan, if desired.
• Serve with a nice crusty bread.
• For Vegetarian use the Vegetable Stock.