Maybe you’re thinking this looks like a giant arancini, right? You would be sort of close. In fact La Bomba di Riso or La Bomba Royale- what I grew up calling it- is a rice bomb. Its a multi step one pot meal so unique to the hearty luscious food of northern Italy. We made this delicious thing over Christmas with my grandmother-there was no way I would attempt alone- and regardless of what she thinks or says she has perfected it. It was just too amazing to see the rice bomb turn out of the pan onto a plate in perfect form. Her skills are truly amazing.

I was very lucky to experience the same meals I grew up eating while visiting family in Italy. The food way connection came full circle during a weekend up in the mountains. La Bomba was the solid centerpiece of the table that each of us sliced into. Bits of buttery breadcrumb falling from the top of the dome onto the table. A stew not too thick or loose slowly spilled out of the center staying in tacked enough for beautiful presentation. In my opinion its a special occasion meal and you make sure to savor the entire thing instantly. If that’s possible!