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Saffron Risotto

17/11/2023

Saffron risotto, also known as “risotto alla milanese,” is a classic dish in Italian cuisine. Here’s the recipe for a delicious saffron risotto.

Ingredients

  • 320 g of Arborio, Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice (ideal for risotto)
  • 1 packet of saffron powder or a few pistils
  • About 1 liter of vegetable or meat broth
  • 1 small finely chopped white onion
  • 80 g of butter
  • 50 g of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 glass of dry white wine
  • Salt (if necessary, depends on the broth)
  • Black pepper (optional)

Preparation

  1. In a large saucepan, melt half the butter over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes transparent, making sure not to burn it.
  2. Add the rice and toast it in the sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the grains become shiny and slightly translucent.
  3. Pour the white wine over the rice and let the alcohol evaporate on high heat.
  4. Start adding the broth little by little, a ladle at a time, waiting for the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Keep the flame on medium-low and stir frequently.
  5. Dissolve the saffron in a little warm broth and add it to the rice, stirring well to distribute the color evenly.
  6. Continue cooking, adding broth and stirring occasionally until the rice is al dente, which should take about 16-18 minutes.
  7. When the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and add the remaining butter and Parmesan. Stir vigorously to cream the risotto. Taste and, if necessary, adjust the salt.
  8. Let the risotto stand for a minute before serving.

The risotto should be creamy but not too liquid. Serve it immediately to enjoy its best texture.

Curiosity

Saffron risotto is an integral part of Milanese culinary tradition and is often served as an accompaniment to osso buco. Legend has it that this risotto was born in the 16th century thanks to a painter, who used saffron to dye the windows of churches and suggested it to color the risotto on the occasion of a wedding.

Remember that, being a traditional recipe, the quality of the ingredients is essential for an excellent result. Buon appetito!