Stove-Top Creamy Risotto (Printable)

Creamy Italian rice simmered with mushrooms or Parmesan for a comforting, elegant stovetop dish.

# Ingredient List:

→ Rice

01 - 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 9 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced (optional)

→ Liquids

06 - 5 cups warm vegetable or chicken broth
07 - 1/2 cup dry white wine

→ Finishing

08 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# How to Make:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
02 - Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. If using mushrooms, add them now and sauté until golden and moisture evaporates, approximately 5 minutes.
03 - Stir in Arborio rice, cooking and stirring for 2 minutes until grains are well-coated and edges appear translucent.
04 - Pour in the dry white wine, stirring constantly until fully absorbed by the rice.
05 - Add warm broth one ladleful (approximately 1/2 cup) at a time, stirring gently and allowing liquid to be mostly absorbed before adding more. Continue until rice is creamy and al dente, about 18 to 22 minutes.
06 - Remove from heat. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and risotto is creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
07 - Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The creamy texture is achieved without the need for heavy cream, relying on well-cooked Arborio rice and a gradual broth addition.
  • Versatile enough for mushroom lovers or Parmesan aficionados, with optional parsley for freshness.
  • Comforting yet elegant, perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.
  • Vegetarian-friendly and adaptable for vegan diets with simple substitutions.
02 -
  • Keep your broth warm throughout the cooking process to maintain consistent temperature and prevent slowing the rice's cooking.
  • Use a wooden spoon for stirring to avoid damaging the rice grains and to distribute heat evenly.
  • Don’t rush adding the broth; patience is key to achieving the perfect creamy texture.
  • Choose high-quality Parmesan such as Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best flavor impact.
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