risotto ai funghi
Risotto ai funghi: creamy, flavorful and light. Discover this Mediterranean mushroom risotto recipe that brings comfort and health to your table.
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are softened and any liquid evaporates.
- Add the arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until the grains are lightly toasted.
- Pour in the white wine and stir until the liquid is mostly absorbed by the rice.
- Begin to add the hot vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring gently after each addition. Wait for most of the liquid to absorb before adding more.
- Continue this process for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente. You may not need all the broth, or you might use slightly more.
- Lower the heat to minimum. Stir in the butter and grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well for a creamy finish.
- Remove from heat and let the risotto rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
Notes
Risotto ai funghi is beloved for its comforting texture and ability to showcase seasonal mushrooms. Its creamy, velvety consistency makes it both a classic Italian comfort food and an elegant option for special dinners or simple family meals. This versatile dish lets you highlight quality ingredients with minimal fuss.
Practical Tips & Tricks:
- Don't wash the rice: Avoid rinsing Arborio rice beforehand to keep its natural starch, which gives risotto its signature creaminess.
- Use hot broth: Always keep your broth simmering. Adding cold broth can slow the cooking and affect the final texture.
- Mix mushrooms: Try a combination of cremini, shiitake, or porcini for a deeper, earthier flavor. If using dried porcini, soak them in warm water and add both the mushrooms and strained soaking liquid for extra richness.
- Gentle stirring: Stir gently and consistently; too much agitation can break the rice, while too little can cause sticking.
- Finish off heat: For the creamiest result, stir in butter and Parmesan after removing the pan from heat. This step (called "mantecatura" in Italian) ensures a glossy, luscious finish.
