Arborio is a type of short grain, white rice that is typically used to make risotto. Using arborio rice, with its high starch content, will create a creamy textured rice, which still has a bit of bite to it. Properly cooked risotto has a texture similar to al dente pasta.
Constant Stirring
The secret to making perfect risotto, is to slowly add the liquid in batches, while stirring continuously, until all the liquid has been absorbed. Stirring the rice, while it is cooking, causes the starches to be released which help create the classic, creamy texture associated with risotto.
Ingredients for Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Risotto
- 1/4 cup light olive oil
- 1 cup white or yellow onion - roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic - minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt - optional
- 2 cups broccoli tops - roughly chopped
- 1 cup arborio rice
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese
Directions for Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Risotto
- Add the chicken stock and white wine to a sauce pan and place over medium high heat.
- Add the olive oil to a large stock pot, and place over medium heat.
- Add the onions, and cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until they begin to turn translucent.
- Stir in the garlic, thyme, oregano, pepper, and broccoli and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, being sure that every grain is coated with a bit of oil.
- Cook the rice for a minute or two, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add the warmed chicken stock and white wine mixture to the pot of rice.
- Add approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup of liquid at a time.
- Stir continuously and wait until most of the liquid has been absorbed before adding the next ladle of liquid.
- It should take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes for all the liquid to be completely incorporated into the rice.
- Add the butter and stir until melted.
- Turn the heat off and stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
- Use caution when serving, the risotto will be very hot.
Recipe Tips and Suggestions
1. The white wine called for in this recipe can be omitted, and substituted with an equal amount of chicken stock.
2. Vegetable stock can be used in place of the chicken broth.
3. Substitute margarine or a spreadable butter substitute, such as Land-O-Lakes Buttery Spread, for the butter.
4. Get creative with the cheese used in the risotto recipe. For example, cheddar can be substituted for the Parmesan cheese, or use Monterey Jack cheese in place of the mozzarella.
5. Canned or boxed chicken broth may contain quite a bit of sodium. Taste the risotto, after all the liquid has been added, before deciding to add salt.
6. A variety of meat can be added to the risotto, to turn it into a hearty main dish. For example Add 1 1/2 cups, chopped, cooked chicken breast, or 1/1/2 cups cooked ground beef or turkey to the risotto for a hearty meal.
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