Introduction
Mushroom risotto is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Made with Arborio rice and a variety of mushrooms, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe from Love and Lemons showcases how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality risotto at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1½ pounds mixed mushrooms, chopped
¾ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1½ cups uncooked Arborio rice, rinsed
⅔ cup dry white wine
5 cups warmed vegetable broth
½ cup grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This Mushroom Risotto is sure to impress your guests and family alike. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors, and don’t forget to add your personal touch by adjusting the seasonings and garnishes as you like.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sauté the Mushrooms:
– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven or large, deep skillet over medium heat.
– Add the chopped mushrooms, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Toss to coat.
– Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and browned.
– Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set aside. If necessary, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Cook the Aromatics and Rice:
– Wipe out the pan and return it to the heat.
– Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, chopped onion, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon sea salt.
– Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
– Stir in the finely chopped garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and rinsed Arborio rice. Cook for 1 minute.
– Add the dry white wine. Stir and cook for 1 to 3 minutes, or until the wine has mostly evaporated.
Add the Broth:
– Add the warmed vegetable broth ¾ cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next.
– With the final addition of broth, stir two-thirds of the sautéed mushrooms into the risotto.
– Continue cooking until the risotto is creamy and the rice has a slight al dente bite.
Finish the Risotto:
– Stir in the grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese.
– Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
– Top the risotto with the remaining sautéed mushrooms.
– Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with extra grated cheese, if desired.
Notes
To make this recipe vegan, omit the cheese and top the risotto with a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, sautéing the mushrooms first enhances their flavor and texture, achieving a rich, browned result.
Deglazing
Deglazing is the process of adding liquid to a pan to loosen and dissolve food particles stuck to the bottom. In this risotto, white wine is used to deglaze the pan after cooking the onions and before adding the rice, which adds depth to the dish.
Stirring Constantly
Stirring constantly while adding broth to the risotto helps release the starches from the Arborio rice, creating a creamy texture. This technique is essential for ensuring the risotto cooks evenly and achieves the desired consistency.
Building Flavors
Building flavors involves layering different ingredients and cooking them progressively to enhance the overall taste. This recipe incorporates various components, from sautéed mushrooms to aromatics and cheese, to create a complex and satisfying dish.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the practice of decorating dishes to enhance their presentation and appeal. In this risotto, fresh parsley and extra cheese are used to garnish, adding color and additional flavors to the final dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
While Arborio rice is recommended for its creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors, you can use other short-grain rice varieties, though the texture may differ.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vegetable broth or apple cider vinegar mixed with water for a similar acidity.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the risotto ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh. If you store it, reheat it with a little broth or water to restore its creamy texture.
How do I store leftover mushroom risotto?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
What are some variations I can try with this risotto?
You can add different vegetables, such as peas or asparagus, or proteins like cooked chicken or shrimp. For a different flavor profile, try adding truffle oil or a splash of lemon juice.
Conclusion
Mushroom Risotto is a delightful and creamy dish that showcases the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms combined with perfectly cooked Arborio rice. The balance of saltiness from the cheese and the earthy notes of thyme create a comforting meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning and cheese to your liking, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of mushrooms for a unique taste each time. Enjoy this home-cooked classic!
Creamy Spinach Risotto
Substitute half of the mushrooms with fresh spinach for a vibrant addition that enhances both flavor and nutrition.
Butternut Squash Risotto
For a sweet and savory combination, swap out the mushrooms for roasted butternut squash, adding a warm, autumnal touch.
Asparagus and Lemon Risotto
Incorporate tender asparagus spears and a hint of lemon zest for a fresh, springtime variation that brightens the dish.
Pea and Mint Risotto
Use frozen peas and fresh mint to create a refreshing and green risotto perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
Truffle Risotto
A drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of truffle salt can elevate the dish to a luxurious experience, enhancing the umami flavor profile.
Seafood Risotto
Add shrimp, scallops, or crab meat along with some of the sautéed mushrooms to make a deliciously decadent seafood risotto.
Pumpkin Risotto
Incorporate pumpkin puree into the risotto base for a creamy and seasonal twist, perfect for fall dinners.
