Save to Pinterest Stove-Top Creamy Risotto is a classic Italian treasure that transforms simple ingredients into a luxuriously rich and comforting dish. Whether you choose to enrich it with earthy mushrooms or a generous helping of Parmesan cheese, this risotto captivates with its silky texture and savory depth. Perfect for an elegant dinner or a cozy family meal, each spoonful is a celebration of tradition and flavor, simmered gently on the stove until creamy perfection.
Save to Pinterest This risotto is not only versatile but also a wonderful way to impress guests with authentic Italian cuisine using minimal ingredients. The slow addition of warm broth allows the rice to release its natural starches, resulting in a dish that is creamy without any cream, relying solely on technique and quality local produce.
Ingredients
- Rice: 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 250 g (9 oz) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- Liquids: 5 cups vegetable or chicken broth (kept warm), 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Finishing: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for Parmesan risotto or as an add-on), salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste), 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Step 2
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. If making Mushroom Risotto, add the mushrooms and sauté until golden and their moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3
- Stir in the Arborio rice and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until the grains are well-coated and slightly translucent at the edges.
- Step 4
- Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly, and cook until the wine is fully absorbed.
- Step 5
- Add the warm broth one ladleful (about 1/2 cup) at a time, stirring gently and allowing each addition to be mostly absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18–22 minutes.
- Step 6
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and the risotto is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Maintain a gentle simmer and stir regularly to coax out the creaminess from the rice. Ensure your broth is warm before adding to avoid interrupting the cooking process. Patience in adding broth slowly is key to perfect texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, substitute the butter and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives or nutritional yeast. You can vary the mushrooms or omit them entirely for a simpler Parmesan risotto. A splash of truffle oil before serving adds luxurious aroma and depth.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this risotto as a main dish accompanied by a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes to balance the richness.
Save to Pinterest With careful attention and quality ingredients, this stove-top creamy risotto becomes a memorable dish that offers both comfort and elegance. Enjoy the rich, velvety embrace of every spoonful, a true testament to Italian culinary heritage.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of rice is ideal for this dish?
Arborio rice is best as it absorbs liquid well and creates the signature creamy texture without becoming mushy.
- → Can I substitute the mushrooms or Parmesan?
Yes, mushrooms can be omitted or swapped for other earthy vegetables, and Parmesan can be replaced with vegan alternatives for dietary preferences.
- → How is the creaminess achieved without cream?
The creaminess comes from slowly adding warm broth to the rice and stirring, allowing the starches to release for a smooth texture.
- → What wine type works best in this dish?
A dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors and enhances the depth of the dish.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Risotto is best served immediately to enjoy its creamy texture, but you can reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.