Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this luxurious mushroom risotto! This classic Italian dish showcases the earthy, rich flavors of premium mushrooms in a perfectly creamy, restaurant-quality risotto. Each grain of Arborio rice is lovingly stirred to creamy perfection, creating a dish that's both elegant enough for entertaining and comforting enough for a cozy night in.

What Makes Perfect Mushroom Risotto

  • Premium Mushrooms: Multiple varieties create layers of complex, earthy flavors
  • Arborio Rice: High-starch rice that creates the signature creamy texture
  • Proper Technique: Slow stirring and gradual liquid addition for perfect consistency
  • Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs, good wine, and aged Parmesan elevate the dish

Restaurant-Quality Mushroom Risotto Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb mixed fresh mushrooms (Chestnut, King Trumpet, Oyster varieties) OR 2 oz mixed dried mushrooms
  • 1½ cups Arborio rice
  • 6-8 cups warm vegetable or chicken stock
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 large shallot, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tbsp butter, divided
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and white pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions:

  1. Prep mushrooms: If using dried mushrooms, soak in water for 30 minutes, then drain (save the liquid for stock). Slice fresh mushrooms into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Heat stock: Keep stock warm in a separate pot over low heat. If using mushroom soaking liquid, add it to the stock.
  3. Sauté mushrooms: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pan. Add mushrooms and thyme, cook 8-10 minutes until golden and moisture has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.
  4. Start risotto base: In the same pan, add remaining olive oil. Add shallot and cook 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  5. Toast rice: Add Arborio rice and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until grains are lightly toasted and coated with oil.
  6. Add wine: Pour in white wine and stir until mostly absorbed (about 2-3 minutes).
  7. Add stock gradually: Add warm stock one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until each addition is mostly absorbed before adding more. This process takes 18-20 minutes.
  8. Test doneness: Rice should be creamy but still have a slight bite (al dente). Add more stock if needed.
  9. Finish risotto: Stir in remaining butter, sautéed mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, and cream if using. Add parsley and season with salt and white pepper.
  10. Serve immediately: Risotto waits for no one! Serve in warm bowls with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Serves: 4-6 people

Shop Our Premium Mushrooms for Risotto

Create this incredible risotto with our premium mushroom varieties:

Chef's secret: Dried mushrooms are actually preferred for risotto! They add concentrated flavor, and the soaking liquid becomes a flavorful addition to your stock.

Pro Tips for Perfect Risotto

  • Use warm stock: Cold stock will slow down cooking and affect texture
  • Stir constantly: This releases the starch that creates creaminess
  • Don't rush: Proper risotto takes time and patience
  • Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process
  • Serve immediately: Risotto continues to absorb liquid and can become thick

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

  • Wine Pairing: Serve with the same white wine used in cooking
  • Appetizer: Start with a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Main Course: Perfect alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables
  • Garnish Options: Truffle oil, toasted pine nuts, or fresh herbs
  • Leftover Magic: Form into patties and pan-fry for risotto cakes

Variations & Substitutions

  • Vegan Version: Use vegetable stock, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and extra olive oil
  • Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage
  • Seasonal Twist: Include asparagus in spring or butternut squash in fall
  • Herb Variations: Try rosemary, sage, or oregano instead of thyme

Health Benefits

This mushroom risotto provides complex carbohydrates from Arborio rice, protein from Parmesan cheese, and numerous vitamins and minerals from the variety of mushrooms. The slow-cooking method preserves nutrients while creating a satisfying, wholesome meal that nourishes both body and soul.

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