What kind of rice is used for Risotto?

Arborio rice is most commonly used for risotto for it's high starch content that creates a creamy texture. If you choose a different form of rice, you will not get the right consistency.

Can I substitute the white wine?

Absolutely! Use a few tablespoons of lemon juice or skip right to the chicken stock. It will still be delicious without the wine and I've made it plenty of times without.

Can I skip the heavy cream?

Yes! You can omit the heavy cream. I like it for extra creaminess, but it is not 100% necessary. If you can't have dairy, you can also leave out the cheese and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil instead of butter.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto

Description

You've got to try this creamy garlic parmesan risotto! This recipe is creamy, filled with cheesy garlic flavor and really simple to make.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup arborio rice
3 cups chicken stock
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup white wine (can be left out or substituted with 3 tablespoons lemon juice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
3/4 cup parmigiano reggiano cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon minced chives or parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Begin by placing a dutch oven or large pot on the stovetop over medium low heat. Add in the butter and olive oil and allow it to heat up.
Toss in the onions and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and softened. Stir them to avoid burning.
Add in the garlic and arborio rice and stir. Allow it to toast a bit for a few minutes.
Pour in the wine and allow it to evaporate for a minute.
Now, add 1 cup of chicken stock into the pot until it soaks into the arborio rice. This takes about 5 to 6 minutes. STIR. Then, repeat 2 more times with the remaining stock. Stirring each time you add stock.
Once all of the stock has absorbed into the arborio rice, (should take between 15 and 20 minutes) turn off heat completely.
Sprinkle in salt and pepper and heavy cream. Add in parmesan cheese and stir to incorporate. Cover for 3 minutes.
Uncover and (optional) add in parsley or chives. Top with additional parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Equipment

dutch oven

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Notes

Use a medium low heat throughout the cooking process and don't try to rush it. The arborio rice cooks best over this heat over a 20 minute period.
Watch the onion closely when cooking. We want a translucent color with no browning. Turn the heat down if they start to brown.
Make sure to shred the parmesan cheese from a block for the best texture and melting. A bagged cheese will not work will in this recipe because it contains anti-caking agents and does not melt well.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: dinner
Method: stovetop
Cuisine: Italian