Risotto ai Funghi Porcini Recipe Guide

Risotto is one of those classic Italian dishes that, when made correctly, can transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful recipe for Risotto ai Funghi Porcini, or porcini mushroom risotto. This dish is creamy, rich, and packed with earthy flavors that come from the star ingredient: porcini mushrooms. From my own personal experience, I can assure you that mastering this recipe will not only impress your family and friends but will also give you a profound sense of accomplishment.

So, let me show you how I make this luscious risotto.

Notes on What to Expect

When you make Risotto ai Funghi Porcini, expect a comforting, creamy dish with a wonderful earthy flavor from the mushrooms. The risotto should be creamy but still hold its shape on the plate, not overly soupy. The addition of Parmesan adds a salty, savory depth, while the butter gives it a luxurious finish.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Moderate
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350
• Cost of Ingredients: Approximately $15 (varies by location)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course
• Equipment Needed:
  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #risotto ai Funghi Porcini  here.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup dried porcini mushrooms (soaked in hot water for 20 minutes)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #risotto ai Funghi Porcini  here.

Method

1. Prepare the Broth:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat the broth over low heat. Keep it warm throughout the cooking process; this helps the rice cook evenly.
2. Rehydrate the Mushrooms:
   • After soaking the dried porcini mushrooms, drain them, reserving the soaking liquid. Chop the mushrooms finely and set aside. Strain the soaking liquid to remove any grit, then add it to the broth for extra flavor.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the Mushrooms:
   • Stir in the chopped porcini mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender and fragrant.
5. Toast the Rice:
   • Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the oil and mushrooms. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent at the edges.
6. Deglaze with Wine:
   • Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook until it’s mostly evaporated. This step adds depth to the flavor of your risotto.
7. Add Broth Gradually:
   • Begin adding the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until most of the liquid is absorbed before adding the next ladle. This process helps release the starches in the rice, creating a creamy texture. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
8. Finish with Cheese and Butter:
   • Once the rice is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the remaining butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Rest the Risotto:
   • Allow the risotto to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
10. Garnish and Serve:
    • Serve the risotto warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use vegetable broth.
• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed spinach for added nutrition.
• Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for a herby touch.
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #risotto ai Funghi Porcini  here.

Tips

• Stirring is Key: Frequent stirring is essential for achieving the creamy texture characteristic of a good risotto.
• Taste Test: Don’t hesitate to taste the risotto as you go. This will help you gauge the cooking time and seasoning.
• Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your risotto depends significantly on the quality of the broth and mushrooms you use.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 54g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 10g

I hope this guide has made making Risotto ai Funghi Porcini seem a little less daunting! Have you tried making it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment!