Risotto Milanese

Risotto Milanese Recipe - Italian Beef and Parmesan Cheese Dish

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

Introduction

Risotto Milanese is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich saffron flavor. This dish is a staple in Milanese cuisine and is often served as a main course or side dish. The combination of arborio rice, saffron, and parmesan cheese creates a decadent and flavorful dish that is sure to impress.

History

Risotto Milanese has a long history dating back to the 16th century in Milan, Italy. The dish was originally created by a saffron merchant who wanted to showcase the vibrant color and flavor of saffron in a simple yet delicious dish. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, but the key ingredients of arborio rice, saffron, and parmesan cheese have remained constant.

Ingredients

1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 cup uncooked U.S. arborio or medium-grain rice
pinch of ground saffron
0.5 cup dry white wine
2 cups beef or chicken stock, skimmed of fat
3 cups water
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese
salt and freshly ground white pepper (optional)

How to prepare

Cook the onion in butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the rice and saffron; stir for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the wine; stir until absorbed. Stir in 1 cup of stock. Cook, uncovered, stirring frequently, until the stock is absorbed.
Continue stirring and adding the remaining 1 cup of stock and water, allowing each to be absorbed before adding another, until the rice is tender and the mixture has a creamy consistency. It will take approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
Stir in the cheese, and add salt and pepper if desired.

Variations

Add cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
Stir in peas or asparagus for added color and flavor.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a high-quality saffron for the best flavor and color in your risotto.

- Stir the risotto constantly to ensure a creamy consistency.

- Use a wide, shallow pan to cook the risotto evenly.

- Add the stock and water gradually to allow the rice to absorb the liquid slowly.

Serving Suggestions

Risotto Milanese can be served as a main course with a side salad or as a side dish to accompany grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Use a wooden spoon to stir the risotto to prevent the rice from breaking.

- Cook the risotto over low heat to ensure a creamy consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

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

- Use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve Risotto Milanese in individual bowls garnished with fresh parsley or additional parmesan cheese.

Pairing Recommendations

Risotto Milanese pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store 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

Each serving of Risotto Milanese contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Risotto Milanese contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Risotto Milanese contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Risotto Milanese contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Risotto Milanese is a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Risotto Milanese contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and may contain gluten (arborio rice).

Summary

Risotto Milanese is a creamy and flavorful dish that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Risotto Milanese is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich saffron flavor. This dish is a staple in Milanese cuisine and is sure to impress with its decadent taste and vibrant color. Enjoy this dish as a main course or side dish for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Risotto Milanese. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious cooking, had passed down many recipes to me. But this one was different. It was a secret recipe that she had learned from a dear friend in Milan.

I remember the day she showed me how to make it. We gathered all the ingredients - Arborio rice, saffron, butter, onion, white wine, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. As we cooked together in the kitchen, the aroma of the saffron filled the air, and I knew that this dish was going to be something special.

My grandmother taught me the importance of patience and attention to detail when making risotto. She showed me how to slowly add the warm chicken broth to the rice, stirring constantly until it absorbed all the liquid. She taught me how to test the rice for doneness by tasting it and feeling the texture between my fingers. And most importantly, she showed me the love and care that goes into every dish that we cook.

As we sat down to enjoy our Risotto Milanese together, the flavors danced on my taste buds. The creamy texture of the rice, the subtle hint of saffron, and the richness of the Parmesan cheese all came together in perfect harmony. It was a moment I would never forget.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of making Risotto Milanese with each new generation. And each time I make it, I am reminded of my grandmother and the love and passion she put into every dish she cooked.

I have since added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating different ingredients and techniques that I have learned along the way. But the heart of the dish remains the same - a simple yet elegant dish that brings people together and warms the soul.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the memories of that day in the kitchen with my grandmother, I am grateful for the gift of cooking that she passed down to me. And I know that as long as I continue to cook with love and passion, her spirit will always be with me, guiding me through each recipe and each meal that I make.