Seared Scallops & Truffle Risotto

In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate chips, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of water. Working in 30 second increments, microwave on high, stirring in between, until melted and smooth (or melt in a small pot on the stove, then transfer to a bowl). Add the espresso pastry cream; whisk to combine. Place in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Roughly chop the pistachios. Line a plate with parchment paper (or lightly grease). In a medium pan (nonstick, if you have one), heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the chopped pistachios. Cook, stirring frequently, 1 to 2 minutes, or until lightly toasted. Add the honey. Cook, stirring constantly, 1 to 2 minutes, or until coated. Transfer to the plate; spread into an even layer to avoid sticking. Immediately season with salt and set aside to cool. Rinse and wipe out the pan.

Wash and dry the fresh produce. Cut the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces. Peel and roughly chop 2 cloves of garlic. Halve, peel, and small dice the shallot. Thinly slice the chives.

In the same pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the mushroom pieces in an even layer. Cook, without stirring, 4 to 5 minutes, or until browned. Add the chopped garlic; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, 1 to 2 minutes, or until softened. Add the spinach; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, 1 to 2 minutes, or until wilted. Transfer to a bowl. Taste, then season with salt and pepper if desired. Cover with foil to keep warm. Wipe out the pan.

In a medium pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the diced shallot; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, 1 to 2 minutes, or until slightly softened. Add the rice and a drizzle of olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, 1 to 2 minutes, or until lightly browned.

To the pot, add the demi-glace (carefully, as the liquid may splatter) and 2 ½ cups of water; season with salt and pepper. Heat to boiling on high. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring frequently, 16 to 18 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is al dente (still slightly firm to the bite). Turn off the heat. Add the crème fraîche, butter, vinegar, cooked vegetables, and as much of the truffle zest as you’d like. Stir until thoroughly combined and the butter is melted. Taste, then season with salt and pepper if desired.

Meanwhile, pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Using your hands, remove and discard the tough side muscle from each scallop. Season with salt and pepper on both sides. In the same pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the seasoned scallops in an even layer. Cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until lightly browned. Flip and cook 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until lightly browned and cooked through. Turn off the heat. Serve the finished risotto topped with the cooked scallops. Garnish with the crispy onions and sliced chives. Serve the pudding topped with the candied pistachios for dessert. Enjoy!