Origin Italy
Risotto is a classic Italian rice dish that tastes creamy soft and full of warm flavor. It is made by slowly cooking rice in broth along with butter onion and cheese. The rice becomes thick smooth and very comforting. People in Italy enjoy risotto for lunch and dinner because it feels rich and homely. You can make it with vegetables chicken mushrooms or simple cheese.
This recipe is written in very easy English so anyone can follow the steps without confusion and prepare a perfect creamy risotto at home.
What Is Italian Risotto
Italian risotto is made with
- short grain rice
- broth
- butter
- onion
- cheese
The rice slowly absorbs the broth which makes it creamy without adding cream.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Risotto
- 1 cup short grain rice arborio rice if available
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Half teaspoon salt
- Half teaspoon pepper
For Extra Flavor
- Half cup grated cheese parmesan
- Half cup mushrooms optional
- A few basil leaves optional
Step by Step Method to Make Italian Risotto
Step 1
Cook the Onion
- Heat butter and oil in a pan.
- Add chopped onion.
- Cook for two minutes until soft.
Step 2
Add the Rice
- Add the rice to the pan.
- Mix well so each grain gets coated with butter.
- Cook for one minute.
This helps the rice absorb flavor better.
Step 3
Add the Broth
- Add half cup broth.
- Mix and cook until the broth gets absorbed.
- Add broth slowly again.
- Repeat this process and cook on low heat.
The slow cooking makes the risotto creamy.
Step 4
Add Seasoning
- Add salt and pepper.
- Mix gently.
- Add mushrooms if you want a richer taste.
Step 5
Finish the Risotto
- Add grated cheese and mix well.
- Add basil leaves if you like.
- Switch off the heat.
The risotto should look soft creamy and smooth.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve risotto hot with
- garlic bread
- salad
- grilled vegetables
- chicken dishes
It is soft warm and perfect for a simple comforting meal.
Tips for Perfect Risotto
- Add broth slowly
- Do not cook on high heat
- Use short grain rice only
- Stir often for creamy texture
- Add cheese at the end
Variations You Can Try
- Mushroom risotto
- Lemon risotto
- Chicken risotto
- Spinach risotto
- Tomato risotto
Approximate Nutrition per Serving
Values may vary
- Calories 250 to 350
- Carbohydrates 40g
- Protein 10g
- Fat 10g