Farro with Artichokes and Herb

Farro with Artichokes and Herb

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 carrot finely diced

1 small celery root peeled and finely diced

1 small onion finely diced

2 celery ribs, 1 finely diced and 1 thinly sliced, plus 1/2 cup celery leaves

1 bay leaf

1/2 teaspoon of thyme

2 cups farro 

1 cup dry white wine

4 cups vegetable broth

salt and freshly ground pepper

3 tablespoons grated Grana Padano cheese plus shaved cheese for garnish

4 ounces marinated baby artichokes drained and halved (3/4 cup)

1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves

1/4 cup snipped chives

1 tablespoon tarragon leaves

1 teaspoon white wine vinegar

1 tablespoon olive oil

1. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter.

2. Add the carrot, celery root, onion, celery, bay leaf, thyme, and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are lightly browned about 5 minutes.

3. Add the farro and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.

4. Add the wine and cook, stirring occasionally, until completely absorbed, about 5 minutes.

5. Add half of the broth and cook, stirring occasionally, until completely absorbed, about 12 minutes.

6. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Add the remaining broth and cook, stirring occasionally, until completely absorbed, about 12 minutes longer.

8. Discard the bay leaf.

9. Stir in the grated cheese along with the artichokes and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until creamy.

10. Spoon into bowls.

11. In a medium bowl, toss the sliced celery and celery leaves with the parsley, chives, and tarragon.

12. Add the vinegar and oil, season with salt and pepper and toss.

13. Mound the salad over the farro, garnish with cheese shavings and serve.