Porcini Risotto
Creamy porcini risotto features earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and rich cheeses, offering a comforting yet sophisticated flavor profile. Perfect for mushroom lovers and special dinners, this dish combines the depth of dried porcini with the creaminess of Parmesan and Gorgonzola. Ideal for a hearty vegetarian main or elegant side.
Ingredients
- 3 oz dried porcini mushrooms
- 1 stick unsalted butter ⓘ
- 2 bunches green onions
- 3 carrots ⓘ
- 2 cups Arborio rice ⓘ
- 1 cup J. Lohr Estates Riverstone Chardonnay ⓘ
- 4 cups beef stock ⓘ
- 1 lb mushrooms
- 6 cloves garlic ⓘ
- 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 oz Gorgonzola cheese ⓘ
- 1 cup Bavarian whipping cream
- 2 eggs ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Rehydrate the porcini mushrooms by placing them in a small bowl with hot water; reserve the liquid.
- Saute the chopped green onions and finely chopped carrots in half of the butter for 10 minutes.
- Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with butter.
- Pour in the wine and add 1/2 cup of beef stock.
- Strain the porcini liquid through cheesecloth and add it to the rice.
- Remove any grit from the porcini water.
- Simmer over low heat, stirring and adding more beef stock as it is absorbed, until the rice is tender, about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Meanwhile, sauté the minced garlic, rehydrated porcini mushrooms, and other mushrooms in the remaining butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For best flavor, use high-quality beef stock and fresh mushrooms. If you can't find Arborio rice, Carnaroli or Vialone Nano are suitable substitutes. To enhance creaminess, consider adding a splash more Bavarian whipping cream towards the end of cooking. If you're short on time, prepare the sautéed mushrooms ahead and incorporate them just before serving. This risotto pairs beautifully with Italian recipes featuring creamy sauces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the porcini risotto hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a delightful dinner, consider serving with a glass of the same Chardonnay used in the recipe. This dish also complements heartier fare, such as Italian Supper Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of beef stock or water, and warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Avoid microwaving directly, as it can make the rice gummy. Freshly grated Parmesan can be added when reheating for extra flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porcini Risotto contains roughly 949 calories, with 25g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (315% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and potassium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 875mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh porcini mushrooms instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh porcini mushrooms if available. Replace the dried porcini with about 1.5 times the amount of fresh, and skip the rehydration step. Just sauté them alongside the other mushrooms for a delicious flavor.
What can I substitute for the Gorgonzola cheese?
If Gorgonzola is not to your taste, you can substitute it with feta or a mild blue cheese for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, a sharp cheddar can provide a different yet delightful flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use wine in this risotto?
While wine adds depth to the flavor, you can omit it if desired. Replace the wine with additional beef stock or a splash of lemon juice for acidity. The risotto will still be delicious but may lack the complexity that wine provides.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).