Delight your taste buds with this hearty and flavorful Spinach and Porcini Mushroom Risotto. This Italian classic dish is packed with the rich, earthy flavors of porcini mushrooms, the comforting, creamy texture of arborio rice, and the nutritious goodness of spinach. It's the perfect meal for a cozy dinner at home or a fancy dinner party.
One ingredient to note in this recipe is the Arborio rice. This specific type of rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture that risotto is known for. You can usually find it in the international section of your local supermarket. Another key ingredient is dried porcini mushrooms. These mushrooms offer a unique, intense flavor that really makes this dish stand out. They can sometimes be found in the produce section, but if not, check the soup aisle as they might be stocked with the dried soups.
Ingredients for Spinach and Porcini Mushroom Risotto
Dried porcini: These are a type of mushroom that has a strong earthy flavor. When rehydrated, they significantly enhance the taste of the risotto.
Chicken broth: This forms the liquid base for the risotto, providing it with a savory taste.
Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and to coat the rice.
Onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor to the dish when sautéed.
Arborio rice: This is a starchy short-grain rice that absorbs the broth and releases its starch, making the risotto creamy.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Dry white wine: Adds acidity to balance the rich flavors of the dish.
Cognac: Adds a deep and slightly sweet flavor to the risotto.
Spinach: Provides a fresh, leafy contrast to the rich risotto. It's also packed with nutrients.
Parmesan: Gives the risotto a salty, umami kick and helps to thicken the texture.
Butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the risotto.
One reader, Hermia Valdes says:
This spinach and porcini mushroom risotto recipe is a game-changer! The earthy flavor of the porcini mushrooms combined with the freshness of the spinach creates a delightful harmony. The creamy texture and rich taste make it a comforting and satisfying dish. It's a definite winner for a cozy dinner at home.
Techniques Required for Making Risotto
How to rehydrate dried porcini mushrooms: Soak the dried mushrooms in boiling water until softened, about 15 minutes. Then, remove the mushrooms and strain their liquid into a medium saucepan through a sieve lined with a paper towel.
How to prepare the risotto: In a large pot, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the rice and salt and stir until the rice begins to turn opaque, about 2 minutes. Add the wine, cognac, and chopped mushrooms, and cook until the liquid has been absorbed.
How to cook the risotto: Stir 1/2 cup of simmering broth into the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the broth has been absorbed. Continue adding the broth 1/2 cup at a time and allowing the rice to absorb the broth before adding the next 1/2 cup. Cook the rice until almost tender, about 25 minutes, and then add the spinach. Cook, stirring, until the rice is tender, about 5 minutes longer. Adjust the heat as needed.
How to finish the risotto: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of cognac, the parmesan, and butter until well combined.
How to serve: Serve the risotto hot, and consider pairing it with a pinot noir wine, such as one from Oregon or a basic Burgundy.
How To Make Spinach and Porcini-Mushroom Risotto
This mushroom risotto is a rich and delicious dish that’s packed with parmesan, a splash of brandy, and healthy doses of spinach.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½ozdried porcini,or other dried mushrooms
- 1cupboiling water
- 5cupschicken broth,low sodium
- 3tbspolive oil
- 1onion
- 2cupsarborio rice
- ¾tspsalt
- cupdry white wine
- ¼cupcognac,or other brandy, plus 1 tbsp
- ½lbspinach
- ¾parmesan cube,grated
- 2tbspbutter
Instructions
-
In a small bowl, soak the dried mushrooms in the boiling water for about 15 minutes, until softened.
-
Remove the mushrooms and strain their liquid into a medium saucepan through a sieve lined with a paper towel.
-
Add the broth to the mushroom-soaking liquid; bring to a simmer.
-
Rinse the mushrooms well to remove any grit, chop them, and set aside.
-
In a large pot, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until translucent.
-
Add the rice and salt and stir for about 2 minutes, until the rice begins to turn opaque. Add the wine, the ¼ cup of cognac and the chopped mushrooms. Cook until the liquid has been absorbed.
-
Stir ½ cup of simmering broth into the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the broth has been absorbed. The rice and the broth should bubble gently; adjust the heat as needed.
-
Continue cooking the rice, adding the broth ½ cup at a time and allowing the rice to absorb the broth before adding the next ½ cup.
-
Cook the rice for about 25 minutes, until almost tender, and add the spinach. Cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes longer, until the rice is tender.
-
Stir in the remaining tablespoon of cognac, the Parmesan and butter.
-
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 695.62kcal
- Fat: 21.66g
- Saturated Fat: 7.08g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.21g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.19g
- Carbohydrates: 97.56g
- Fiber: 4.99g
- Sugar: 6.43g
- Protein: 18.33g
- Cholesterol: 27.88mg
- Sodium: 989.17mg
- Calcium: 142.50mg
- Potassium: 814.43mg
- Iron: 6.63mg
- Vitamin A: 328.49µg
- Vitamin C: 18.97mg
Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Risotto
When preparing your spinach and porcini mushroom risotto, it's crucial to add the broth gradually. This allows the arborio rice to absorb the liquid slowly, releasing its starch and creating that characteristic creamy texture. Also, remember to stir frequently. This not only prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot, but it also helps to evenly distribute heat and ensure that all grains are cooked uniformly. Lastly, don't rush the cooking process. Risotto needs time to reach its full potential, so be patient and let it simmer gently.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spinach and Porcini Mushroom Risotto
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure everything is ready to go when needed.
Use a pressure cooker: Consider using a pressure cooker to make the risotto. It significantly reduces the cooking time and still yields a creamy and delicious result.
Frozen spinach: Opt for frozen spinach instead of fresh to save time on washing, drying, and chopping. It's a convenient and quick alternative.
Multi-task: While the risotto is cooking, use the time to clean and prep the kitchen, reducing the post-cooking cleanup.
Invest in good tools: Quality kitchen tools such as sharp knives and efficient cookware can make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
Pre-shredded parmesan: Use pre-shredded parmesan to save time on grating and ensure a consistent texture in the risotto.
Substitute Ingredients For Spinach and Porcini-Mushroom Risotto Recipe
dried porcini - Substitute with dried shiitake mushrooms: Dried shiitake mushrooms have a similar umami flavor and texture to porcini mushrooms, making them a suitable substitute in the risotto recipe.
arborio rice - Substitute with carnaroli rice: Carnaroli rice has a similar starchy texture and ability to absorb flavors, making it a great substitute for arborio rice in risotto recipes.
spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach in the risotto recipe, providing a similar earthy flavor and hearty texture.
parmesan - Substitute with grana padano: Grana Padano cheese has a similar nutty and savory flavor to Parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in the risotto recipe.
Presentation Tips for Spinach and Porcini Mushroom Risotto
Elevate the risotto: Use a ring mold to create a neat, compact mound of risotto in the center of the plate. Press it gently to ensure it holds its shape.
Garnish with crispy spinach: Fry the spinach leaves until they are crispy and use them to add height and texture to the dish. Place them delicately on top of the risotto.
Drizzle with cognac reduction: Create a rich and flavorful cognac reduction to drizzle around the risotto, adding depth and elegance to the presentation.
Shave parmesan over the top: Use a fine grater to shave delicate curls of parmesan over the risotto, adding a touch of luxury and enhancing the visual appeal.
Add a touch of edible gold leaf: For a truly luxurious touch, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of the risotto to add a shimmering, opulent finish.
Serve on warm plates: Ensure the plates are warmed before plating to maintain the perfect temperature of the risotto and create a professional touch.
Sprinkle with porcini dust: Grind dried porcini mushrooms into a fine powder and sprinkle it around the plate for a burst of earthy flavor and a visually stunning effect.
Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil: Just before serving, add a subtle drizzle of truffle oil to enhance the aroma and add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Risotto
- Small bowl: This is used for soaking the dried porcini mushrooms in boiling water until softened.
- Medium saucepan: This is used to combine the mushroom-soaking liquid with the broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Sieve: The sieve is used to strain the soaked mushroom liquid into the medium saucepan, removing any impurities.
- Paper towel: It is used to line the sieve when straining the soaked mushroom liquid to ensure a clear liquid.
- Large pot: This is used for cooking the risotto, allowing enough space for stirring and adding ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is used for stirring the risotto as it cooks, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Chef's knife: This is used to chop the soaked porcini mushrooms and the onion.
- Cutting board: The cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping the mushrooms and onion.
- Grater: A grater is used to grate the parmesan cheese, adding a rich and savory flavor to the risotto.
- Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to accurately measure the ingredients, ensuring the right balance of flavors in the risotto.
- Ladle: A ladle is used to add the simmering broth to the risotto, one ladleful at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid gradually.
- Wine glass: This is used for serving and enjoying the recommended wine with the finished risotto.
Storing and Freezing Spinach and Porcini Mushroom Risotto
Storing leftover risotto in the refrigerator:
- Allow the risotto to cool completely to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the risotto to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Tightly seal the container or bag to prevent air from entering and drying out the risotto.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Refrigerate the risotto for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing leftover risotto for longer storage:
- Allow the risotto to cool completely to room temperature before freezing.
- Divide the risotto into individual serving portions for convenient thawing and reheating.
- Transfer each portion to a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the risotto for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating refrigerated risotto:
- Transfer the desired portion of risotto to a microwave-safe dish.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
- Microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
- Adjust the heating time as needed based on the quantity of risotto being reheated.
- Stir well before serving to distribute the heat evenly and restore the creamy texture.
Reheating frozen risotto:
- Remove the desired portion of frozen risotto from the freezer.
- Thaw the risotto in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Transfer the thawed risotto to a microwave-safe dish.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
- Microwave on high power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
- Adjust the heating time as needed based on the quantity of risotto being reheated.
- Stir well before serving to distribute the heat evenly and restore the creamy texture.
How To Reheat Risotto Leftovers
- To reheat leftover spinach and porcini mushroom risotto, start by placing the desired amount of risotto in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out during the reheating process.
- Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. Microwave the risotto on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each interval, until it is heated through and steaming. This method ensures that the risotto reheats evenly and maintains its creamy texture.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the risotto on the stovetop. Place the desired amount of risotto in a saucepan and add a splash of chicken broth or water. Heat the risotto over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it is heated through and the liquid is absorbed. If the risotto becomes too thick, add more broth or water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- For a crispy twist, consider transforming your leftover risotto into risotto cakes. Scoop the cold risotto into patties and coat them in breadcrumbs. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the risotto cakes until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. This method creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, breathing new life into your leftover risotto.
- Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the risotto and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a pat of butter, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and restore the risotto to its former glory.
Random Fact About Spinach and Porcini Mushroom Risotto
The spinach and porcini mushroom risotto recipe is a classic Italian dish that combines the earthy flavors of porcini mushrooms with the freshness of spinach. This dish is a great source of iron, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthy and delicious meal option. Additionally, the combination of white wine and cognac adds a depth of flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized with additional ingredients such as lemon zest or fresh herbs to suit individual preferences.
Is Making Risotto at Home Economical?
This spinach and porcini mushroom risotto recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of arborio rice and dried porcini mushrooms may increase the cost, but the dish's rich flavors and substantial servings justify the expense. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. The risotto receives a solid 8/10 rating for its taste, nutritional value, and overall satisfaction. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, its delightful flavors and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for a special family meal.
Is This Risotto Healthy or Unhealthy?
The spinach and porcini mushroom risotto recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but it does have some aspects that could be improved upon. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's nutritional merits:
Positives:
- Spinach is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium
- Porcini mushrooms are low in calories and fat, while providing a good source of fiber, protein, and B vitamins
- Arborio rice, although high in carbohydrates, is a good source of complex carbs and contains some protein
Negatives:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of oil and butter, which can increase the dish's calorie and saturated fat content
- Parmesan cheese, while providing calcium and protein, is also high in saturated fat and sodium
- The use of white wine and cognac adds extra calories and sugar to the dish
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of oil and butter used, or replace them with healthier alternatives like olive oil or avocado oil
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
- Opt for a reduced-fat parmesan cheese, or use a smaller amount of the regular variety
- Replace some of the arborio rice with quinoa or barley for added fiber and protein
- Increase the amount of spinach used to boost the dish's nutrient content
- Experiment with adding other vegetables, such as roasted red peppers or artichokes, for added flavor and nutrition
Editor's Opinion on This Risotto Recipe
The spinach and porcini mushroom risotto recipe is a delightful combination of earthy flavors and creamy textures. The use of dried porcini mushrooms adds a rich umami depth, while the addition of spinach brings a vibrant freshness to the dish. The incorporation of cognac and parmesan elevates the overall flavor profile, creating a luxurious and indulgent experience. The cooking method outlined ensures a perfectly cooked risotto with a luscious, velvety consistency. This recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and is sure to impress anyone who enjoys a comforting and satisfying meal.
Why trust this Spinach and Porcini-Mushroom Risotto Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring the earthy richness of porcini mushrooms and the vibrant freshness of spinach. The use of cognac adds a layer of depth, while the inclusion of parmesan and butter ensures a creamy and indulgent finish. The step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, allowing you to create a restaurant-quality risotto in the comfort of your own kitchen. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to elevate your culinary experience and impress your guests with a memorable dining experience.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
