BROWN BUTTER ORZO RISOTTO

1 T butter
1 1/3 cup orzo
3 1/2 cup water
1 t kosher salt
fresh ground black pepper

in a large nonstick skillet or a heavy saucepan, cook butter over moderate heat until the solids that sink to the bottom are golden brown and the butter smells like roasting nuts. add the orzo, increase the heat to medium and saute sitrring constantly until the orzo is golden and about one third of the grains are dark brown.  stir in the water and salt and bring to a boil.  cook at a low boil until the orzo is tender and most of the water has cooked off, about 11 minutes.  there will be a light creamy "sauce" that binds the orzo, making it slightly soupy.  add pepper to taste.