A Golden, Creamy Classic That Brings Italy to Your Table
Risotto alla Milanese is a luxurious Italian dish known for its rich, creamy texture and vibrant golden hue, thanks to saffron. This Northern Italian favorite is perfect for those who love comfort food with a touch of elegance. Its silky consistency and bold flavor make it an ideal dish for special occasions or any time you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Risotto alla Milanese is a versatile dish that shines at holiday feasts, dinner parties, or intimate family gatherings. Traditionally served during festive occasions in Milan, it’s the perfect choice for Christmas dinners or celebratory meals where you want to impress guests with an authentic Italian classic.
How to Make From Scratch Risotto alla Milanese
- Sauté the Onions: Start by sautéing finely chopped onions in butter until soft and translucent.
- Toast the Rice: Add Arborio rice to the pan and toast it gently for a few minutes, allowing it to absorb the butter and release a nutty aroma.
- Add Broth Gradually: Slowly ladle in hot chicken or beef broth, one scoop at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice reaches a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Saffron: Dissolve saffron threads in a small amount of warm broth and stir it into the risotto for that signature golden color.
- Finish with Butter and Cheese: Stir in a generous amount of butter and grated Parmesan cheese to give the dish its creamy, luxurious texture.
- Serve Immediately: Risotto is best enjoyed right after cooking while it’s still hot and velvety.
When to Flip Risotto alla Milanese
There’s no flipping required for Risotto alla Milanese. Instead, focus on stirring the rice constantly as you add the broth to ensure the risotto cooks evenly and achieves its signature creamy texture.
How to Reheat Risotto alla Milanese
To reheat Risotto alla Milanese, place it in a saucepan with a splash of broth or water. Warm it over low heat while stirring frequently to revive its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the risotto to become too dry or unevenly heated.
Can You Save Batter Risotto alla Milanese?
Since risotto is not a batter-based recipe, there’s no need to worry about saving batter. However, leftover risotto can be stored and transformed into delicious dishes like arancini (fried rice balls) if needed.
Can You Freeze Risotto alla Milanese?
Risotto alla Milanese can be frozen, but it may lose some of its creamy texture upon reheating. To freeze, transfer the cooled risotto into an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a saucepan with additional broth.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth, heated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 1 pinch saffron threads
- 3 tbsp butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté the onions until soft and translucent.
- Add the Arborio rice and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until it’s absorbed.
- Begin adding the hot broth, one ladle at a time, stirring until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. Repeat until the rice is creamy and fully cooked.
- Dissolve saffron threads in a small amount of broth and stir into the risotto.
- Stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper, then serve immediately.
Editor’s Note:
For an extra touch of luxury, top your Risotto alla Milanese with a drizzle of truffle oil or shaved truffles. This dish pairs beautifully with braised meats like osso buco, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
