Ingredients

6 to 7 cups chicken or vegetable stock

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 large yellow onion, coarsely chopped

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

3 cups orzo pasta

1 1/2 cups grated Asiago cheese

1 cup fresh cilantro leaves

Preparation

In a large saucepan, bring the stock to a slow boil.

In a large skillet or saucepan set over a medium flame, melt and combine the olive oil and butter. Add the onion and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Season lightly with salt and pepper, then add the orzo and continue cooking until the pasta browns lightly.

Using a ladle, carefully add the stock to the skillet. Bring to a boil and cover. Turn off the heat and let stand 20 minutes. The orzo should absorb the liquid. If any remains, cook over a low heat until absorbed.

Stir in the cheese and the cilantro, saving several leaves for garnish. Garnish and serve.