Creamy Saffron Risotto

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice
• 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 75g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat and keep it simmering.
2. 2.
   In a separate large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion to the saucepan and sauté until translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir it for a minute until it is well coated with the butter.
5. 5.
   Pour in the white wine and cook until it is absorbed by the rice.
6. 6.
   Dissolve the saffron threads in a small amount of warm water and add it to the rice mixture.
7. 7.
   Begin adding the simmering vegetable broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until each ladleful is absorbed before adding the next.
8. 8.
   Continue this process until the rice is cooked al dente, which should take about 20 minutes.
9. 9.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and grated Parmesan cheese.
10. 10.
    Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. 11.
    Let the risotto rest for a few minutes before serving.
12. 12.
    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Arborio rice — Use Arborio rice specifically for risotto as it has a high starch content, which contributes to the creamy texture of the dish.
• Saffron threads — To extract the maximum flavor and color from saffron, soak the threads in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the risotto.

Tips & Tricks

• Stir the risotto constantly while adding the broth to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
• Use a wide saucepan to allow for better evaporation and absorption of the broth.
• For a richer flavor, toast the Arborio rice in butter before adding the onion.
• If you prefer a more intense saffron flavor, steep the threads in warm milk instead of water before adding them to the risotto.
• Leftover risotto can be transformed into delicious arancini (risotto balls) by shaping them, coating in breadcrumbs, and frying until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Creamy Saffron Risotto as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Presentation advice

Present the Creamy Saffron Risotto in individual shallow bowls, allowing the vibrant yellow color to shine. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of green.