Why You’ll Love It
Simple risotto is a classic Italian comfort dish that combines creamy texture with rich, savory flavors. It’s easier to make than you think and perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests. Plus, you can customize the recipe with your favorite add-ins like mushrooms, peas, or seafood.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice – the key to creamy risotto
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for depth of flavor
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional) adds acidity and aroma
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the broth in a saucepan over low heat; keep warm.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Sauté onion and garlic until soft but not browned.
- Add Arborio rice, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to toast the grains.
- Pour in the white wine and let it absorb fully into the rice.
- Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait till liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. Continue for 18-20 minutes until rice is creamy and cooked.
- Remove from heat; stir in remaining butter and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
Enjoy your simple risotto immediately or keep warm while finishing other dishes. For more comfort food ideas, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners. Learn about rice varieties on Food Network.
Expert Tips
Use Arborio rice for authentic creaminess. Stir often but gently to release starch without breaking grains. If risotto gets too thick, add extra warm broth or a splash of water. Avoid high heat; keep it medium to low to cook rice evenly.
Storage
Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and stir over low heat until creamy again. Risotto can be frozen but may lose some texture.
Variations
- Vegan: Swap butter and Parmesan for vegan alternatives or nutritional yeast.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free with Arborio rice and broth.
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and skip cheese or use dairy-free cheese.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition.
FAQ
- What makes a simple risotto creamy?
- The key is Arborio rice’s high starch content and gradually adding warm broth while stirring frequently.
- Can I use other types of rice?
- Short-grain rice like Arborio is best; other types won’t yield the same creamy texture.
- How long does risotto take to cook?
- Typically 18-20 minutes of cooking after adding rice, plus prep time.
- Is simple risotto difficult to make?
- Not at all! With patience and a little stirring, you’ll quickly master making simple risotto.
Call to Action
Try this simple risotto recipe today and let us know how it went in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate and share with friends who love comforting meals. Explore more delicious mains in our Mains section.
