Rustic Mushroom Risotto

15 min

Prep Time

35-40 min

Cook time

4-6

Serves

This mushroom risotto recipe goes “old school” with its traditional “stand and stir” technique. This approach may take a bit more time, but the results are well worth the effort.

When making this recipe, don’t substitute other forms of rice because they won’t deliver the coveted rich, creamy texture you’re after. Most groceries stores carry Arborio rice, or you can easily find it online.

This melt-in-your-mouth mushroom risotto will keep your guests coming back for more. It’s the perfect dinner for large families and entertaining, and you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour.

A TIMELESS CLASSIC

Risotto is a traditional Italian dish with a well-worn European history that stretches back hundreds of years. Originally a humble peasant dish, risotto originated in Northern Italy; however, versions of this dish are consumed all over Italy today.

Risotto is an effortless, hearty meal, which is why it is so popular in Italian homes. It’s not only a simple dish to make, but also quick and can easily be adapted to personal preferences.

Since its early Italian roots, the dish’s popularity has grown, and it’s now a firm favorite in homes around the globe.

THE SECRET HEALTH BENEFITS OF RISOTTO

While the deliciousness of Rustic Mushroom Risotto is undisputed, you might not know that it’s healthy too. When prepared with fresh ingredients and the right mix of herbs and spices, you get a well-rounded meal with numerous health benefits.

Each ingredient found in Rustic Mushroom Risotto has unique health advantages:

Arborio rice contains antioxidants that help protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals.
Dried porcini mushrooms are full of nutrients that can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, as well as improve your immune system response to infection.
Dried thyme contains a range of minerals and vitamins that support healthy cells, bone development and healthy immunity.
High-quality chicken broth contains protein and essential fatty acids, which help your body build healthy muscle, bone and skin.

BON APPETITE

Whether you are looking for a quick weekday family meal, serving dinner to guests or trying to incorporate healthier foods into your diet, look no further than Rustic Mushroom Risotto.

Belle Donne Spices offers you an incredible range of spices to bring out the delicate flavors in your risotto, and your family and friends are bound to be impressed by this hearty and healthy meal.

Keep in mind, though, that not all risottos are created equal, and there’s a wide gap in taste and texture between good risottos and great ones. So, for your next risotto, give this recipe a go. It’s based on traditional Italian risotto recipes but simplified for everyday enjoyment.

Serving suggestion: serve your risotto in heated bowls and garnish with crispy bacon and fine-chopped fresh parsley for additional protein, crunch, and flavor.

Ingredients

4 c. chicken or vegetable broth, heated
1 T. olive oil
3 T. unsalted butter, divided3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely minced
½ medium yellow onion, finely chopped
4 oz. baby Portobello mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
4 oz. white mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
1 t. Belle Donne dried thyme
Belle Donne sea salt and black pepper, to taste
1 c. Arborio rice
½ c. dry white wine
½ c. Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 t. fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat chicken or vegetable broth until hot. Reduce heat to simmer and keep warm.
Add olive oil, one tablespoon butter, and garlic to a large, high-sided skillet. Turn heat to medium and sauté for approximately one minute, or until garlic softens.
Add onion and sauté for 2 minutes before adding the sliced mushrooms and dried thyme. Cook until mushrooms soften and release liquid. Remove from heat and season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
Return pan to heat and add remaining butter. Add Arborio rice and sauté until thoroughly coated. Add white wine and stir constantly until wine is completely absorbed.
Add one cup warm broth to pan and stir constantly until it is completely absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, one cup at a time, until it is all incorporated and the rice has achieved a rich, creamy consistency. (For a creamier texture, add more broth until the desired results are achieved).
Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh rosemary. Add mushrooms and stir until thoroughly combined. Season with salt and black pepper.
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh rosemary, if desired. Serve immediately. Enjoy!