Introduction
Saffron Risotto, or Risotto alla Milanese, is a classic Italian dish renowned for its creamy texture and luxurious flavor. The addition of saffron not only gives the risotto its signature golden hue but also infuses it with a unique and aromatic taste. Traditionally served as a first course or as a side dish, it pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins and vegetables, making it a versatile and elegant option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Prepare the broth:
- In a saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth over low heat. Add the saffron threads to the broth to allow them to steep and release their flavor.
-
Sauté the aromatics:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
-
Toast the rice:
- Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice is lightly toasted and coated in the oil and butter.
-
Deglaze with wine:
- Pour in the dry white wine and stir until the liquid is mostly absorbed by the rice. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
-
Add the broth gradually:
- Begin adding the warm saffron-infused broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time. Stir constantly and wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.
-
Finish the risotto:
- Once the rice is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the remaining butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
-
Serve:
- Spoon the saffron risotto onto plates, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Health Note
- Moderation is key: While saffron risotto is delicious, it's also rich in calories and carbohydrates. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced meal.
- Lower sodium: Use low-sodium broth to help control sodium intake and maintain flavor without excess salt.
How to Enjoy
- Saffron risotto is best enjoyed hot and creamy, ideally paired with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. It can also be served as a hearty first course or side dish.
Tip
- Perfect creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a bit more broth or water during cooking if the risotto becomes too thick. Always stir constantly to help release the starches from the rice, which creates the creamy consistency.
- Saffron quality: Use high-quality saffron for the best flavor and color. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly!
