This risotto can be spiked by adding herbs, saffron or by replacing the onions with leeks. If adding vegetables, meat or seafood, cook them separately and stir in just before serving.
For the cheese, Parmesan or pecorino are best; they add flavor without competing with the natural creaminess of the rice. And be sure to use freshly grated cheese. Anything from a can will taste like it came from a can.
Best risotto
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cups Arborio rice
1/2 cup dry vermouth
4 cups chicken broth, brought to a simmer
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
Salt, to taste
In a wide, heavy saucepan over medium, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the rice and lightly toast it for 2 minutes, stirring constantly with a silicone spatula. Do not brown the rice.
Add the vermouth and cook, stirring constantly, until all the wine is absorbed and the rice begins to stick.
Ladle in enough warm broth to just cover the rice. Cook, stirring vigorously every 1 to 2 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Continue adding the broth a ladleful at a time, stirring constantly and waiting until the broth is entirely absorbed before adding the next ladleful. Do this until the rice is soft, but not mushy, about 20 minutes. You may not need all of the broth.
Turn off the heat. Add the Parmesan cheese and butter and stir vigorously until the risotto is creamy. Stir in the parsley, then season with salt. Makes 4 servings.
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