Do you ever feel that buying special risotto rice is a bit of a hassle? You can make a delicious risotto using Japanese rice as well. White asparagus is often sold in bundles, so if you live alone or have a small family, it can be difficult to use it all up. Another challenge is that white asparagus spoils quite quickly. When that happens, try making this white asparagus risotto.
 Ingredients * Leftover white asparagus * Japanese rice, about 1/2 go per person * 1/2 onion * Salt and pepper, to taste * Butter, to taste * 3 pinches aonori seaweed flakes * 1 tbsp olive oil * Parmesan cheese, to taste * Saffron, optional
 Instructions 1. Boil the white asparagus in a pot. Do not discard the cooking water, as you will use it to make the risotto. 2. Finely chop the onion. When the asparagus is almost cooked, sauté the onion in olive oil. 3. Once the onion becomes soft, add the rice and sauté it together. 4. When the rice becomes slightly translucent, add enough asparagus cooking water to just cover the rice. Do not add all the liquid at once; keep the rest aside and add it little by little. 5. Continue adding the asparagus cooking water as needed until the rice reaches your preferred texture. 6. When the rice is almost done, add the saffron and boiled asparagus. 7. Finish with aonori, salt, and pepper. Serve on a plate and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
 The cooking time is usually less than 20 minutes, making this a good option for dinner after work.
 About Saffron Saffron is known to contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals, although these amounts are not nutritionally significant. What makes saffron interesting is that it contains carotenoids, especially crocin, which is known for its antioxidant properties. Saffron is also often associated with a calming effect and is sometimes said to support mood balance. It contains compounds such as crocin and safranal, which are believed to work on the nervous system and may help promote relaxation. However, saffron alone is not a treatment for depression or anxiety. If you are interested in its benefits, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Please avoid excessive intake.