Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom Risotto: A Creamy Italian Classic

Mushroom risotto is a comforting dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. Made with creamy Arborio rice, earthy mushrooms, and rich Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. With its luxurious texture and deep umami flavors, it’s a favorite among risotto lovers.

Ingredients

For 4 servings:

• 300 g Arborio rice
• 250 g seasonal mushrooms, sliced
• 750 ml vegetable broth, kept warm
• 100 ml dry white wine
• 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation

Sautéing the Mushrooms

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5 minutes until golden brown.
3. Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set aside.

Cooking the Risotto

1. In the same pan, melt the remaining butter and add the onion and garlic. Sauté until soft.
2. Add the Arborio rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in the white wine and let it cook until mostly absorbed.
4. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Allow the liquid to absorb before adding more.
5. Continue this process for about 20 minutes until the rice is creamy but still slightly al dente.

Final Touches

1. Stir the cooked mushrooms back into the risotto.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Serving

Garnish the risotto with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best creamy consistency.

Tips and Variations

• Use different mushrooms: Porcini, cremini, or shiitake add unique flavors.
• Make it vegan: Swap butter for olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Enhance the umami: Stir in a splash of truffle oil or a bit of soy sauce for added depth.

FAQ

Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat it with a bit of broth to restore its creamy texture.

What’s the best rice for risotto?

Arborio is the most common, but Carnaroli or Vialone Nano work well too.

Can I use water instead of broth?

You can, but broth enhances the flavor significantly. A homemade vegetable stock is a great alternative.

Conclusion

Mushroom risotto is a timeless Italian dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether for a special occasion or a simple dinner, it delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Try it and enjoy a taste of Italy!