Delicate and Fragrant Saffron Risotto
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Servings
4
Yield
Serves 4
Calories
Approximately 380 calories per serving
The Delicate and Fragrant Saffron Risotto is a dish that whispers the secrets of refined cuisine into the diner’s senses.
This risotto, with its creamy texture and a palette of gentle yet distinct flavors, showcases the luxurious saffron not just as an ingredient but as the star.
Each grain of Arborio rice is tenderly cooked to perfection, absorbing the rich chicken broth and the saffron’s golden hue, which imparts an exquisite aroma and a beautiful color.
Paired with the nutty undertones of Parmesan cheese and a hint of white wine, this risotto is a testament to the beauty of minimalism in cooking.
Perfect for a serene evening meal or a sophisticated dinner party, it invites you to savor the artful balance of flavors that only the most delicate touch can achieve.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 1/2 cups of Arborio rice
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine
- 4 cups of warm chicken broth
- A pinch of saffron threads, steeped in 1/4 cup of warm water
- 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Arborio rice to the pan, stirring to coat the grains in the butter. Cook until the edges of the rice begin to look translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and stir until it is fully absorbed by the rice.
- Begin adding the warm chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next.
- Stir in the saffron and its soaking water after the first few ladles of broth have been absorbed. Continue to add broth and stir as before.
- Once the rice is creamy and just tender (al dente), about 18-20 minutes from the first broth addition, remove from heat.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smoothly integrated into the risotto. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Tricks
- The quality of saffron is crucial; look for threads that are deep red and aromatic for the best flavor and color.
- Stirring the risotto constantly is key to achieving the perfect creamy texture while ensuring the rice cooks evenly.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and ensure the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
- Saffron risotto pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine that complements its rich flavors.
Mise en Place
Ingredients
Utensils
- Unsalted butter
- Onion
- Arborio rice
- Dry white wine
- Chicken broth
- Saffron threads
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Large saucepan
- Ladle
- Wooden spoon
Knives
Pots & Pans
Air Fryer
Storage
Cookbook
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