Risotto alla Milanese is a luxurious and creamy rice dish flavored with saffron, giving it a beautiful golden color and a distinctive, rich taste. This traditional Italian recipe from Milan is often served as a main course or as an accompaniment to ossobuco. Follow this recipe to create a perfect Risotto alla Milanese that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Broth:
- Heat the Broth:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer. Keep it warm over low heat.
- Infuse with Saffron:
- Add the saffron threads to the warm broth and let it infuse for about 5 minutes.
Making the Risotto:
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Toast the Rice:
- Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with the oil and butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is slightly translucent around the edges.
- Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in the dry white wine and cook, stirring, until the liquid is fully absorbed by the rice.
- Add the Broth:
- Begin adding the warm saffron-infused broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the broth is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladleful. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and tender, but still al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
- Finish with Butter and Cheese:
- Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the remaining butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serving:
- Plate the Risotto:
- Spoon the risotto onto warm plates or into shallow bowls.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately, enjoying the rich and creamy texture of this classic Italian dish.
Risotto alla Milanese is a quintessential Italian dish that showcases the creamy, luxurious nature of well-prepared risotto. The infusion of saffron adds both a vibrant color and a unique flavor, making this dish a standout at any meal. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight dinner, this risotto is sure to impress. Buon appetito!