Riso alla Milanese: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that embodies the flavors of Italy, look no further than Riso alla Milanese. This saffron-infused risotto is a classic from Milan, boasting rich flavors and a creamy texture that makes it a perfect main course or side dish. From my own personal experience, preparing this dish can feel daunting, but I assure you, with the right steps and ingredients, you can create a delightful meal. Let me show you how I make Riso alla Milanese.

Notes on What to Expect

When you make Riso alla Milanese, expect a comforting, creamy dish with a lovely golden hue from the saffron. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or can be served as a main course on its own. The texture should be creamy and slightly loose, allowing it to flow but not be soupy.

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: Approximately 350 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: $12-$15 (depending on local prices)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course or Side Dish

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Grater (for cheese)
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Riso alla Milanese  now.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Riso alla Milanese  now.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. In a saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer. Add the saffron threads to the broth and let them steep. This will infuse the broth with a beautiful golden color and distinct flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Make sure not to brown the onions.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

4. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help release the starches and create a creamy risotto.

Step 4: Add Wine (Optional)

5. If using, pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer until mostly absorbed, stirring frequently. This adds depth of flavor, but you can skip this step if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

Step 5: Gradually Add Broth

6. Begin adding the saffron-infused broth one ladle at a time to the rice. Stir gently and allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.

Step 6: Finish the Risotto

7. Once the rice is al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite), remove the skillet from heat.
8. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 7: Let it Stand

9. Let the risotto stand for about 5 minutes. This allows it to thicken slightly and become even creamier.

Step 8: Serve

10. Serve the Riso alla Milanese hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmigiano-Reggiano, if desired.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or peas for extra protein.
• Herbs: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil for additional flavor.

Tips

• Stir Constantly: The key to a creamy risotto is to stir regularly, which helps release the starches from the rice.
• Use Good Quality Ingredients: High-quality broth and cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Rush: Allowing each ladle of broth to absorb before adding more is essential for perfect risotto.
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Riso alla Milanese  now.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses Arborio rice.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g

I hope this guide has made making Riso alla Milanese seem a little less daunting. Have you tried 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! Enjoy your cooking!