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Caramelized Onion Risotto

Caramelized Onion Risotto
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Caramelized Onion Risotto is a rich and creamy Italian dish combining sweet, slowly sautéed onions with velvety Arborio rice cooked to perfection. This comforting meal is perfect for cozy dinners or impressive gatherings, offering a gourmet taste using simple pantry ingredients. Creamy, flavorful, and versatile, it pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs & Garnish

  • Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat butter and olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally for 30-40 minutes, until they become golden brown and sweetly fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor.
  2. Toast the Rice: Add Arborio rice to the pan with the caramelized onions and stir for 2-3 minutes until each grain is well coated and slightly toasted, developing a subtle nutty flavor.
  3. Deglaze with White Wine: Pour in the white wine (if using) and stir until it is mostly absorbed by the rice, adding brightness and balancing the sweetness of the onions.
  4. Add Warm Broth Gradually: Begin adding warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender yet slightly firm to the bite.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for color and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the best creamy texture.

Notes

  • Take your time caramelizing onions over low heat for deep, rich sweetness.
  • Stir the risotto often to prevent sticking and to release the rice’s natural starch for creaminess.
  • Use warm broth to maintain a steady cooking temperature and achieve ideal texture.
  • Stick to Arborio rice or similar varieties like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano for authentic risotto creaminess.
  • Adjust the amount of broth to get your preferred risotto consistency—more for creamier, less for firmer.
  • Serve risotto immediately as it thickens upon cooling.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caramelized onion risotto, creamy risotto, Italian comfort food, Arborio rice recipe, easy risotto, vegetarian risotto, dinner recipe

Find it online: https://withnora.com/caramelized-onion-risotto/