Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5–7 minutes.
- Pour in the Arborio rice. Stir well for 2 minutes, letting the grains get slightly toasted and coated in the oil.
- Deglaze by adding the white wine. Stir continuously until almost all the liquid has evaporated.
- Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time. Stir gently and let the rice absorb most of the liquid before adding more. Continue this process for about 18–20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your authentic risotto ai funghi!
Notes
Risotto ai funghi is beloved for its creamy texture and rich, earthy flavors. This Italian staple is remarkably versatile, offering endless ways to adapt based on your pantry or local market finds. Whether you're aiming for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe never fails to deliver comfort and sophistication.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Mushroom Risotto
- Choose the right rice: Arborio is the classic choice for risotto because of its high starch content, ensuring a luscious, creamy result.
- Use warm broth: Adding cold broth can shock the rice and disrupt the creamy consistency. Keep your broth simmering nearby for the best texture.
- Don't rush the process: Adding the broth gradually and stirring frequently helps release the rice’s starch, resulting in that signature creaminess.
- Build flavor in layers: Sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil adds depth, while toasting the rice before adding wine brings nuttiness.
Ingredient Swaps & Enhancements
- Mushroom variations: While cremini or button mushrooms work beautifully, try mixing wild mushrooms (like shiitake or porcini) for a more pronounced umami flavor.
- Vegan version: Swap parmesan for nutritional yeast or a plant-based hard cheese, and use olive oil entirely instead of butter.
- No wine on hand? A splash of extra broth works fine, though a touch of lemon juice at the end revives acidity.
Technique Insights
- Consistent stirring doesn't mean constant – stir every minute, letting the rice absorb liquid while being careful not to break the grains.
- Al dente perfection: Aim for a creamy but slightly firm bite. Taste toward the end of cooking for the ideal texture.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
- Serve immediately: Risotto waits for no one – plate it as soon as it’s ready for the silkiest experience.
- Pair with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal. For a protein boost, top with grilled chicken or seared scallops.
- Leftover magic: Turn chilled risotto into arancini (fried rice balls) or use as a stuffing for vegetables the next day.