Wild Mushroom Risotto – There’s something truly magical about a well-made risotto — creamy, rich, and full of comforting flavor. Among all the variations, Wild Mushroom Risotto stands out as one of the most luxurious and earthy versions of this classic Italian dish. This recipe perfectly balances the deep umami of wild mushrooms with the velvety texture of Arborio rice, creating a dish that feels both elegant and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty vegetarian meal, this risotto delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Active Time: 35 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Cuisines: Italian
Course: Main Course
Servings: 4
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Total Time: 55 minutes
Equipment Needed
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Large sauté pan or skillet
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Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
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Saucepan (for warming broth)
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Ladle
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
Ingredients
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1 ½ cups Arborio rice
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4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (kept warm)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster, or porcini), sliced
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½ cup dry white wine
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: truffle oil or extra butter for finishing
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a small saucepan, heat the broth over low heat. Keeping it warm is crucial since adding cold broth to the rice can shock it and disrupt the creamy texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced wild mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until they are tender and slightly golden. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Toast the Rice
Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes, coating each grain with butter and oil. This step helps lock in the starch, ensuring the rice maintains its texture during cooking.
Step 5: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine and stir until it’s mostly absorbed. The wine adds acidity and depth of flavor, balancing the richness of the dish.
Tips for Perfect Wild Mushroom Risotto
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Choose quality mushrooms: A mix of fresh wild varieties like porcini, oyster, and cremini creates layers of flavor.
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Use Arborio rice: Its high starch content is what makes risotto creamy. Carnaroli or Vialone Nano are also great alternatives.
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Warm broth only: Always add warm broth to maintain even cooking and consistent texture.
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Stir frequently: Not constantly, but enough to help the rice release starch without breaking down.
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Avoid rushing: True risotto is made slowly — patience is key to achieving that luscious creaminess.
Conclusion
The Wild Mushroom Risotto is a dish that celebrates simplicity, flavor, and texture. Each spoonful delivers the creamy richness of Arborio rice, the earthy depth of mushrooms, and the luxurious aroma of Parmesan cheese. It’s a versatile meal that feels both rustic and refined — perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
