Mushroom risotto

Here's a delicious recipe for Mushroom Risotto, a creamy and comforting dish that's perfect for a cozy meal:

Mushroom Risotto

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups Arborio rice (or another short-grain risotto rice)
  • 500g (1 lb) mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup dry white wine (optional; you can substitute with more broth)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth:

  • In a medium saucepan, keep the chicken or vegetable broth warm over low heat. This helps maintain the temperature of the broth as you add it to the rice.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms:

  • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:

  • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
  • Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

4. Toast the Rice:

  • Add the Arborio rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir to coat the rice with the oil and butter, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent around the edges.

5. Deglaze with Wine:

  • Pour in the white wine, if using, and stir until it is mostly absorbed by the rice.

6. Cook the Risotto:

  • Begin adding the warm broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition of broth to be absorbed by the rice before adding more.
  • Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente, about 18-20 minutes.

7. Finish the Risotto:

  • Once the rice is cooked to your liking, stir in the sautéed mushrooms.
  • Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the butter is melted and the cheese is fully incorporated.

8. Season and Serve:

  • Taste the risotto and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Mushroom Risotto! It pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or as a side dish to your favorite main course.