Plain Risotto

Plain Risotto Recipe - Italian Rice Dish with White Wine and Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Risotto is a classic Italian dish that is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. This Plain Risotto recipe is a simple yet delicious version that highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients.

History

Risotto has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to the 14th century in northern Italy. It was traditionally made with rice, broth, and cheese, and has since evolved to include a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and seafood.

Ingredients

1 cup minced onion
1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 cup uncooked U.S. arborio or medium-grain rice
0.33 cup dry white wine
2 cups chicken broth, divided
3 cups water
0.25 cup parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Cook the onion in butter until it becomes soft in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the rice and stir for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the wine and stir until it is absorbed. Stir in 1 cup of broth. Cook, uncovered, stirring frequently, until the broth is absorbed.
Continue stirring and adding the remaining 1 cup of broth and water, allowing each cup to be absorbed before adding another, until the rice is tender and the mixture has a creamy consistency. This process will take approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
Stir in the cheese.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked vegetables such as peas, mushrooms, or asparagus for a more colorful and flavorful dish.
Stir in cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein-packed meal.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use arborio or medium-grain rice for the best results, as these varieties are known for their creamy texture.

- Stir the risotto constantly while adding the broth and water to ensure a creamy consistency.

- Use a high-quality parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Plain Risotto as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

- Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect risotto is to stir constantly and add the broth and water gradually to allow the rice to absorb the liquid slowly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this recipe.

- Substitute butter for margarine for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Risotto is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook the risotto just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Plain Risotto in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Plain Risotto with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore the creamy texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

220 per serving

Carbohydrates

35g per serving

Fats

5g per serving

Proteins

7g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and may contain gluten (depending on the type of broth used).

Summary

This Plain Risotto recipe is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Plain Risotto recipe is a classic dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a creamy texture and rich taste, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it as a side dish or a main course for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Plain Risotto. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn all about the culinary arts from my mother. She was an excellent cook, and I was always in awe of the delicious meals she would prepare for our family.

One day, as I was helping my mother in the kitchen, she pulled out a tattered old cookbook that had been passed down through generations of our family. Inside, there was a recipe for Plain Risotto that caught my eye. I had never heard of risotto before, but the description of a creamy and flavorful rice dish intrigued me.

My mother explained to me that risotto was a traditional Italian dish made with Arborio rice, broth, butter, and Parmesan cheese. She told me that it was a simple yet elegant dish that could be served as a side or even as a main course. I was eager to learn how to make it, so my mother patiently guided me through the process.

First, we heated some chicken broth in a saucepan until it was simmering. In a separate skillet, we melted some butter and sautéed some finely chopped onions until they were translucent. Then, we added the Arborio rice and stirred it constantly until it was coated in the butter and slightly toasted.

Next, we began adding the warm chicken broth one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid was absorbed before adding more. This process of slowly adding broth and stirring the rice would continue for about 20 minutes, until the rice was creamy and tender. Finally, we stirred in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a bit more butter to finish the dish.

As I took my first bite of the Plain Risotto, I was amazed at the rich and creamy texture of the rice. The flavors of the Parmesan cheese and butter melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and luxurious. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Plain Risotto countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I would add in some sautéed mushrooms or fresh herbs for a different twist. Other times, I would experiment with different types of cheese to create a unique flavor profile.

I have also shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of making Plain Risotto to the next generation. I have taught my own children how to make this dish, just as my mother taught me all those years ago. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, connecting me to my family's culinary heritage.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover the joys of making Plain Risotto, I am grateful for the knowledge and skills that have been passed down through the generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones and create lasting memories. And this recipe for Plain Risotto will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and excitement that comes from discovering a new dish and sharing it with those you love.