Classic Risotto

Cookinero 3 May 2025

Risotto is one of the most popular dishes of Italian cuisine. The main ingredients for risotto are round rice, vegetable or chicken broth, onion and butter. If desired, you can use additives: mushrooms, seafood, chicken, vegetables. However, all options are based on the classic recipe, having mastered which, you can easily cook risotto with the addition of other ingredients.

How to cook Classic Risotto

Step 1

Classic Risotto

Chop the onion into small cubes.

Step 2

Classic Risotto

Grate the cheese on a fine grater.

Step 3

Classic Risotto

Melt a little butter in a saucepan, saucepan or frying pan with high sides, then add vegetable oil to it.

Step 4

Classic Risotto

Add the onion to the saucepan and fry until translucent over low heat for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5

Classic Risotto

Pour one third of the broth into the onions and bring it to a boil.

Step 6

Classic Risotto

Then add rice to the broth.

Step 7

Classic Risotto

Cook the risotto over low heat, stirring constantly, until the broth is completely absorbed into the rice. Add another third of the broth and repeat.

Step 8

Classic Risotto

Then add grated cheese, herbs, butter, salt and ground black pepper to taste to this (or a separate) saucepan with rice.

Step 9

Classic Risotto

Mix the risotto thoroughly and let it sit for 5-7 minutes. Serve the risotto hot, with a French baguette. Enjoy!

Classic Risotto - FAQ About Ingredients, Baking Time and Storage

Arborio rice is ideal for risotto due to its high starch content, but you can use Carnaroli or Vialone Nano as alternatives. Avoid long-grain rice like basmati, as it won't achieve the same creamy texture.
Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken or meat-based broth. Ensure your cheese is vegetarian (some contain animal rennet) for a fully vegetarian dish.
Store cooled risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
Yes, freeze risotto in portion-sized containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with extra broth or butter to refresh the texture.
Replace butter with olive oil and omit the cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Risotto pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled seafood. A light, acidic side helps balance the dish's richness.
For fewer servings, halve all ingredients. For more, increase proportionally, but cook in batches to maintain even heat distribution and texture.
Stirring releases the rice's starches, creating risotto's signature creaminess. It also prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Absolutely! Try mushrooms, asparagus, or cooked shrimp. Add hearty ingredients with the rice, and delicate ones (like peas) near the end.

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