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★★★★☆

Creamy Risotto Milanese with saffron and grated cheese.

Risotto Milanese

Course: Dinner
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Calories: 174 (per serving)

A creamy, rich Italian saffron rice dish flavored with white wine, onions, and butter—perfect as a side or a hearty meal on its own.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat and sauté the onions until translucent.
2. Add the rice and stir to coat the grains with butter.
3. Pour in the white wine and cook until it is mostly evaporated.
4. Add saffron and gradually add hot chicken stock, stirring constantly.
5. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper, stir in a little more butter, and serve hot.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 174
• Fat: 0.7g
• Protein: 3.9g
• Carbohydrates: 38.1g
• Fiber: 1.2g
• Sodium: Varies by stock cube used

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Risotto Milanese?
   Risotto Milanese is a traditional Italian dish made with creamy saffron-infused rice cooked with onions, white wine, and chicken stock, and finished with butter.
2. How long does it take to cook the rice?
   About 15 minutes, until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Can I use a different type of rice?
   Yes, but the texture and cooking time will vary. Long-grain rice is recommended.
4. Is saffron necessary?
   Saffron adds unique flavor and color. You can omit it or use turmeric as a substitute for color.
5. Can I use vegetable stock instead?
   Yes, vegetable stock is a good vegetarian alternative.
6. How many servings does it make?
   About 4 servings as a side dish.
7. Can I reduce the butter?
   Yes, or use olive oil instead for a lighter option.
8. Is it important to sauté the onions?
   Yes, it enhances flavor, but you can skip it if necessary.
9. Can I add other vegetables or protein?
   Absolutely—try chicken, shrimp, peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
10. What can I serve it with?
    It pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, curry, or kebabs.
11. Can I make it ahead of time?
    It’s best fresh, but you can reheat gently before serving.
12. Can I freeze leftovers?
    Not recommended—freezing affects the texture.
13. Can I skip the wine?
    Yes, substitute with extra broth or water.
14. Is it gluten-free?
    Use gluten-free stock cubes or homemade stock.
15. Can I make it vegan?
    Use vegan butter and vegetable stock.
16. Can I use a rice cooker?
    Yes, follow your rice cooker’s liquid ratios.
17. How do I know the rice is done?
    Taste to check tenderness and ensure liquid is absorbed.
18. Can I double or halve the recipe?
    Yes, scale ingredients accordingly.
19. Can I make it spicy?
    Add cayenne or chili flakes as desired.
20. Can I use brown rice?
    Yes, but it takes longer and needs more liquid.
21. Can I garnish with herbs?
    Yes—try parsley, cilantro, or chives.
22. Can I replace white wine?
    Use water or broth instead.
23. How to prevent sticking?
    Stir frequently and use a non-stick pan or a bit of oil.
24. Can I skip the butter?
    Use olive or vegetable oil as a substitute.
25. Is there a low-sodium version?
    Use low-sodium stock and limit added salt.
26. Can I add raisins or nuts?
    Yes, near the end of cooking for extra texture.
27. Can I use a pressure cooker?
    Yes, adjust time and liquid for your model.
28. Can I use homemade stock?
    Yes, but taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.
29. Can I reheat in the microwave?
    Yes, cover loosely to retain moisture.
30. Can I use ghee?
    Yes, it adds a nutty richness to the dish.
31. Can I use other spices?
    Try thyme, cumin, or paprika to boost flavor.

Tags: buttery rice, Dinner, Easy Recipe, flavorful rice, homemade Recipe, Italian, onion rice Recipe, rice dish, saffron rice, side dish