Save to Pinterest Stove-Top Creamy Risotto is the epitome of comfort and elegance rolled into one luscious Italian dish. This recipe invites you to slowly simmer Arborio rice on the stove, coaxing out its creamy texture while enriching it with the earthy depth of mushrooms or the savory richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive main course, this risotto delivers both simplicity and sophistication in every spoonful.
Save to Pinterest The magic of risotto lies in its gentle simmer and constant stirring, transforming simple ingredients into a velvety masterpiece. Using high-quality broth and freshly grated Parmesan elevates this dish to authentic Italian standards, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with parsley, it’s a dish that warmly welcomes family and friends to the table.
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)
- 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
- 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
To ensure your risotto achieves the perfect creamy consistency, keep your broth warm and add it gradually, stirring gently to coax out the starch from the rice. Avoid rushing the process—patience will reward you with a silky texture that clings beautifully to each grain.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe easily adapts for different dietary needs: substitute plant-based butter and vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a vegan version. Mushrooms add an umami depth but can be omitted for a simpler Parmesan-based risotto. Experiment with a splash of truffle oil to elevate the earthy flavors before serving.
Serviervorschläge
Serve your creamy risotto as a stand-alone main dish or alongside grilled vegetables and a crisp green salad. Pair it with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to perfectly complement the rich, savory flavors.
Save to Pinterest With its rich creaminess and comforting flavors, Stove-Top Creamy Risotto is a dish to savor and share. Whether crafted with mushrooms or pure Parmesan, it invites both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs to enjoy a timeless taste of Italy in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of rice is best for this dish?
Arborio rice is ideal due to its high starch content, which creates the creamy texture essential to the dish.
- → Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth maintains a rich flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.
- → How do I achieve the perfect creamy consistency?
Slowly adding warm broth ladle by ladle and stirring ensures the rice releases starch and becomes creamy without overcooking.
- → What variations can be added for extra flavor?
Adding sautéed mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, or a splash of truffle oil enhances the dish’s depth and elegance.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, by substituting plant-based butter and vegan cheese alternatives, it can be made vegan-friendly.