Simple Mushroom Risotto (Saizeriya-Inspired)

Simple Mushroom Risotto (Saizeriya-Inspired)

Ingredients (Serves 2-3):

• For the Risotto:

  • 1 cup (200g) Arborio rice (or any short-grain rice)

  • 4 cups (1L) chicken or vegetable broth (keep it warm on the stove)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup (150g) mushrooms (shiitake, button, or any variety), sliced

  • 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional, but adds depth)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth:

   • Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm on low heat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large pan or pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.

   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 2-3 minutes).

   • Add the garlic and mushrooms, and cook until the mushrooms are tender and slightly browned (about 5 minutes).

3. Toast the Rice:

   • Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir to coat it with the oil/butter. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly translucent around the edges.

4. Deglaze with Wine (Optional):

   • If using wine, pour it into the pan and stir until it’s mostly absorbed by the rice.

5. Cook the Risotto:

   • Add a ladleful of warm broth to the rice and stir continuously until the liquid is absorbed.

   • Repeat this process, adding broth one ladle at a time and stirring constantly, for about 15-20 minutes. The rice should be creamy and tender but still slightly firm in the center (al dente).

6. Finish the Dish:

   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

   • Remove from heat and let it rest for 1-2 minutes.

7. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

   • Enjoy your creamy, comforting risotto!

Tips for Success:

• Stir Constantly: This helps release the starches and creates the creamy texture.

• Use Warm Broth: Adding cold broth can slow down the cooking process and affect the texture.

• Customize It: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies like peas or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

• No Wine? No Problem: You can skip the wine and use a bit of lemon juice or extra broth instead.