Ultimate Comfort: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Mushroom Risotto is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich, earthy flavors with a luscious, velvety texture. This classic Italian dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a sophisticated dinner party starter. Follow this simple recipe to create a restaurant-quality risotto at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button)

  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, warmed

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Warm the chicken or vegetable stock in a small pot and keep it over low heat.

  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.

  3. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter.

  2. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

  1. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir to coat in the butter and onion mixture.

  2. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly translucent around the edges.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine (Optional)

  1. Pour in the white wine and stir until it is mostly absorbed by the rice.

Step 5: Add the Stock Gradually

  1. Begin adding the warm stock, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently.

  2. Allow each addition of stock to be absorbed before adding the next.

  3. Continue this process until the rice is tender and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Cheese

  1. Stir the sautéed mushrooms back into the risotto.

  2. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese.

  3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Spoon the risotto into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

  2. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness!

Tips for Perfect Risotto

  • Use Warm Stock: Adding warm stock helps maintain the cooking temperature and ensures even cooking.

  • Stir Often: Stirring releases the starch from the rice, creating a creamy texture.

  • Don’t Rush: Risotto requires patience; add the stock gradually for the best results.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a delightful dish that never fails to impress. Try it tonight and let us know your favorite risotto variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!

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