There are three basic ways of cooking risotto – the traditional stand-and-stir method, the bung-it-in-the-oven method and the leave-it-to-its-own-devices-on-the-stovetop method. The latter is my preferred method – mix it all up then cover it and let cook it on very low heat. An occasional stir will suffice.
Risottos are easily scalable – this recipe serves two, but if you figure 1/2 cup of rice per person, and use 3 times as much stock as rice, you’re good to go!
Not sure what to serve it with? Get ideas here.
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Simple Saffron Risotto
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
This easy saffron risotto is cozy and simple in the best ways. It’s the perfect side to your favorite protein.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium red onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup risotto rice (arborio, carnaroli…)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 3 cups vegetable stock
- pinch saffron threads or powder (I used about 12 threads)
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan (or vegan alternative)
- 1 Tbsp dried chive flowers
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium, heavy-based saucepan over low heat.
- Cook the onion until softened, then add the garlic and cook a further two to three minutes, just until fragrant. You don’t want it to brown.
- Stir in the rice to coat with oil, then add the white wine and stir until evaporated.
- Add the stock all at once, and stir in the saffron.
- Cover and cook over very low heat, stirring every ten minutes, until the rice is cooked and it has the desired consistency. It should be loose but not liquid.
- Stir through the parmesan and ladle the risotto into shallow bowls.
- Sprinkle with chive flowers before serving. (optional)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side
- Cuisine: Italian
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of rice is best for this saffron risotto?
Use Arborio rice, as it has the right starch content to create that creamy texture characteristic of risotto.
How do I incorporate saffron into the risotto?
Add the saffron strands to the stock while it’s heating to release its flavor and color before mixing it into the rice.
Is there a specific stock I should use for this recipe?
Use vegetable stock — chicken stock isn’t offered as an alternative.
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