Save to Pinterest Indulge in the timeless elegance of Stove-Top Creamy Risotto, a quintessential Italian main dish that transforms simple Arborio rice into a velvety, comforting masterpiece. Whether enriched with the earthy depth of mushrooms or the rich savoriness of Parmesan cheese, this recipe brings warmth and sophistication to your table with every creamy spoonful.
Save to Pinterest This risotto invites you to slow down and enjoy the art of cooking, stirring your way to a luscious dish that’s both satisfying and impressive. The gentle simmering and gradual addition of broth ensure each grain of rice is perfectly tender and infused with rich flavors, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 250 g (9 oz) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced (optional for Mushroom Risotto)
- 5 cups vegetable or chicken broth, kept warm
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for Parmesan Risotto or as add-on)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- 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.
- 3. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until the grains are well-coated and slightly translucent at the edges.
- 4. Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly, and cook until the wine is fully absorbed.
- 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.
- 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.
- 7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Use medium heat to gently coax out the flavors from the onions and garlic without browning them too quickly. Stirring the rice frequently encourages the release of starch, creating the signature creamy texture. Keep the broth warm to maintain a smooth cooking temperature and prevent the rice from cooking unevenly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan twist, replace the butter with plant-based alternatives and swap Parmesan cheese for vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast. You may also incorporate seasonal vegetables or a splash of truffle oil for added aroma and depth. Mushroom lovers can enjoy an earthy risotto by including sautéed cremini or button mushrooms.
Serviervorschläge
Serve your creamy risotto topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc and makes a delightful main course for a cozy night in or an elegant dinner party.
Save to Pinterest With its harmonious blend of creamy texture and rich flavors, this Stove-Top Creamy Risotto is sure to become a cherished recipe in your repertoire. Whether served as a comforting weeknight dinner or a sophisticated centerpiece, it epitomizes the heart and soul of Italian cooking.
Questions & Answers About This Recipe
- → What type of rice is best for creamy risotto?
Arborio rice is ideal due to its high starch content, which creates the desired creamy texture when cooked slowly with broth.
- → Can I substitute mushrooms in this dish?
Yes, cremini or button mushrooms add an earthy depth, but you can omit them for a simpler savory profile enhanced by Parmesan cheese.
- → How important is the slow addition of broth?
Gradually adding warm broth and stirring allows rice to absorb liquid evenly, resulting in creamy, tender grains without becoming mushy.
- → Is white wine necessary for this risotto?
Dry white wine adds subtle acidity that balances richness. It’s recommended but can be skipped for a dairy-forward version.
- → What are some finishing touches to enhance flavor?
Stirring in butter and freshly grated Parmesan at the end enriches creaminess, while chopped parsley offers fresh aroma and color.
- → Can this dish be adapted for vegan diets?
Replace butter with plant-based alternatives and Parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free variation.