Butternut Squash Risotto

This recipe does not work well if you have small ones to tend to because it requires 30 minutes of constant stirring. But for those of you who do not have children or for a special dinner when the other parent is on duty, this is yummy, and a special treat.

2 C water, divided
2-14 oz. cans beef or vegetable broth
2 t olive oil
1/2 C finely chopped yellow onion
3 C cubed (3/4 in) peeled butternut squash (about 1 lb)
1/2 t salt
1/4 t black pepper
1 & 1/2 C Arborio rice
1/2 C grated Parmagiano-Reggiano cheese (Asiago or Parmesan work too)
3 T butter
2 T finely chopped fresh parsley (I've used dried before too)

Bring 1&1/2 C water and broth to a simmer in a large saucepan. Do not boil; but keep warm over low heat.
Heat oil in a Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Add onion, cook 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently. Add 1/2 C water, squash, salt, and pepper and cook 10 minutes or until squash is tender and water has almost evaporated. Add rice; stir until combined. Stir in 1/2 C broth mixture; cook until liquid is nearly absorbed, stirring constantly. Add 1/2 C broth mixture, stirring constantly until it is absorbed; repeat until broth mixture is gone (about 30 minutes total). Stir in cheese, butter and parsley. Ready to serve. Makes 4 servings as a main dish and 8 as a side.