Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan

Indulge in the luxurious taste of our Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan, a timeless Italian dish that brings comfort and sophistication to your dining table. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the creamy texture of arborio rice, all enhanced by the savory notes of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

The key to achieving the perfect mushroom risotto lies in the slow and patient cooking process. Begin by sautéing finely chopped onions and garlic in olive oil until they are translucent. Add in a variety of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, to bring depth of flavor to the dish. Stir in the arborio rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the aromatic mixture before slowly introducing a warm vegetable or chicken broth.

As the rice absorbs the liquid, it releases its natural starches, creating the characteristic creamy texture of risotto. Continuously stir the mixture, adding broth gradually, until the rice is tender yet slightly al dente. For the final touch, fold in a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese, enhancing the dish with its nutty and salty profile. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Our Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan is perfect as a main course or a delightful side dish, pairing wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a fresh green salad. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe promises a comforting and memorable meal that showcases the best of Italian cuisine.

Ingredients :

Instructions :

Notes :

• Use Arborio rice for a creamy texture as it releases starch while cooking.
• Olive oil adds flavor and helps cook the onions and garlic.
• Unsalted butter is used for a rich, creamy finish.
• Yellow onion should be finely chopped for even cooking and integration into the risotto.
• Minced garlic adds aromatic flavor; ensure it doesn’t burn by stirring.
• Use fresh mushrooms like cremini or button for a deep, earthy flavor.
• Keep vegetable broth warm but not boiling to facilitate absorption into the rice.
• Fresh thyme leaves add a subtle herbal note; use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Fresh parsley provides a fresh, bright garnish to the finished dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty flavor and creaminess.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
• Lemon juice and zest add a fresh, acidic balance to the creaminess of the risotto.
• Stir the rice frequently to release starches and achieve a creamy texture.
• Cook the rice until al dente for the perfect texture; it should be creamy but have a slight bite.
• Stirring in butter and cheese off the heat ensures a smooth, creamy finish.
• Garnish with parsley just before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Tips :

• Use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even cooking and prevent the rice from sticking.
• Before you begin, have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, as risotto requires your full attention once you start cooking.
• Keep the vegetable broth warm on the stove; adding cold broth can shock the rice and slow down the cooking process.
• Use a wooden spoon for stirring the risotto, as it is gentle on the rice and the pan.
• Stir frequently but not constantly to prevent the rice from sticking and to help release the starch that makes the risotto creamy.
• Slice the mushrooms evenly so they cook at the same rate, and ensure they are dry before adding to the pan to help them brown properly.
• If using dried thyme instead of fresh, use only about 1/3 teaspoon, as dried herbs are more potent.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Taste the risotto for seasoning before adding salt, as Parmesan cheese can be quite salty on its own.
• If the risotto becomes too thick, add a small amount of warm broth to loosen it up.
• The risotto should be served immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
• For additional richness, you can stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end.
• Always zest the lemon before juicing it for ease and efficiency.
• If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add more zest to taste.
• For an extra touch of flavor, consider using a mix of mushrooms such as shiitake, oyster, or porcini.
• If you like a bit of crunch, garnish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving.