Creamy mushroom risotto is a classic Italian dish loved for its rich flavors and comforting texture. This recipe combines Arborio rice, flavorful mushrooms, and a hint of Parmesan cheese to create a dish that is both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Saute the Aromatics
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Rice
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are tender and any liquid released has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
- If using, pour in the white wine and cook until it has been absorbed by the rice, stirring constantly.
- Begin adding the chicken or vegetable broth, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and tender, about 20-25 minutes. You may not need to use all of the broth.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Once the risotto is creamy and the rice is cooked to your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the risotto hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Use homemade broth for the best flavor, but store-bought broth works well too.
- For extra richness, add a tablespoon of butter along with the Parmesan cheese at the end.
- Be patient while cooking the risotto, and stir frequently to help release the starches from the rice for a creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Creamy mushroom risotto is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. With its creamy texture and earthy flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!
