Dried-Porcini-Mushroom Risotto Recipe

This decadent risotto recipe showcases the earthy depth of dried porcini mushrooms complemented by the tanginess of mild goat cheese. The final touch of butter and black pepper enhances the overall richness of this dish, making it a memorable meal for any special occasion.

Photos of Dried-Porcini-Mushroom Risotto with Goat Cheese Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be readily available in your pantry, such as dried porcini mushrooms, arborio rice, and mild goat cheese. These are common in Italian cuisine, but not always used in daily cooking. You can easily find them at any gourmet store or in the international section of a supermarket.

Ingredients for Dried Porcini Mushroom Risotto with Goat Cheese Recipe

Dried mushrooms: Provides an intense, earthy flavor that forms the backbone of this risotto.

Chicken broth: Adds depth and richness to the risotto, complementing the umami notes of the mushrooms.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, and helps to build the base flavor of the risotto.

Onion and garlic: These aromatics infuse the oil with flavor, which in turn flavors the rice.

Arborio rice: A short-grain Italian rice known for its high starch content, making for a creamy risotto.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Butter: Adds a rich, creamy finish to the risotto.

Black pepper: Brings a slight heat and complexity to the overall dish.

Goat cheese: Offers a tangy contrast to the earthy mushrooms, and contributes to the creaminess of the risotto.

Parmesan: Used as a garnish, it adds a sharp, salty note, balancing the richness of the dish.

One reader, Ignacius Durant says:

This dried porcini mushroom risotto with goat cheese recipe is a game-changer! The rich, earthy flavors of the porcini mushrooms combined with the creamy goat cheese create a luxurious and comforting dish. The recipe is easy to follow and yields a restaurant-quality meal. I highly recommend trying it out!

Ignacius Durant

Techniques Required for Making Porcini Mushroom Risotto

How to rehydrate dried mushrooms: Soak the dried mushrooms in hot water until softened, about 20 minutes. Then, remove the mushrooms, chop them, and strain the soaking liquid through a paper-towel-lined sieve into a medium saucepan.

How to cook risotto: In a medium pot, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Then, add the chopped mushrooms, rice, and salt, stirring until the rice begins to turn opaque. Gradually add the simmering broth to the rice, allowing it to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is tender, about 25 to 30 minutes.

How to finish the risotto: Once the rice is tender, stir in the butter, pepper, and goat cheese. Serve the risotto with grated parmesan.

How to pair with wine: Tuscany's chardonnays, with their tropical-fruit flavors and generous oak, make a great combination with this dish.

How To Make Dried-Porcini-Mushroom Risotto with Goat Cheese

Enjoy tart, earthy, and savory flavors all in one bite with this luscious mushroom risotto, packed with porcinis, goat cheese, and tender arborio rice.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Soak Time: 20 minutes

Total: 1 hour 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupdried porcini,(about 1 oz), or other dried mushrooms
3hot water
3½cupchicken broth,low sodium
3tbspolive oil
1onion
5garlic cloves
2cuparborio rice
1¼tspsalt
2tbspbutter
¼tspfresh ground black pepper
2ozmild goat cheese
parmesan,grated

Instructions

Put the dried mushrooms in a medium bowl and pour the hot water over them. Soak for about 20 minutes until softened.
Remove the mushrooms, reserving the soaking liquid, and chop them.
Strain the liquid through a paper-towel-lined sieve into a medium saucepan. Add the broth to the pan and bring to a simmer.
In a medium pot, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
Add the chopped mushrooms, the rice, and the salt and stir for about 2 minutes, until the rice begins to turn opaque. Add about ½ cup of the simmering broth to the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the broth has been completely absorbed.
Continue cooking the rice, adding broth ½ cup at a time and allowing the rice to absorb it before adding the next ½ cup.
Cook the rice in this way for 25 to 30 minutes in all, until tender. Stir in the butter, pepper, and goat cheese.
Serve the risotto with grated Parmesan, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 740.98kcal
Fat: 22.34g
Saturated Fat: 8.03g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.07g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.01g
Carbohydrates: 119.11g
Fiber: 7.77g
Sugar: 5.51g
Protein: 18.67g
Cholesterol: 28.09mg
Sodium: 962.94mg
Calcium: 50.22mg
Potassium: 940.43mg
Iron: 5.80mg
Vitamin A: 91.54µg
Vitamin C: 5.21mg

Pro Tip for Perfectly Creamy Risotto

When making risotto, it's important to stir frequently. This helps to release the starch from the rice, which gives the dish its characteristic creamy texture. However, be careful not to stir too vigorously or you might break the grains and end up with a mushy texture. Also, adding the broth gradually, allowing the rice to absorb each addition before adding the next, ensures that the rice cooks evenly and achieves the perfect al dente texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Risotto Recipe

Prep ahead: Soak the dried mushrooms and chop the onion and garlic in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Organized setup: Measure out all the ingredients and have them ready to go before starting to cook to avoid any last-minute scrambling.

Efficient multitasking: While the mushrooms are soaking, start heating the broth and preparing the other ingredients to save time.

Consistent stirring: Stir the risotto frequently but not constantly, allowing you to attend to other tasks while it cooks.

Quality ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients can enhance the flavors, reducing the need for extensive seasoning and adjustments.

Substitute Ingredients For Dried-Porcini-Mushroom Risotto with Goat Cheese Recipe

porcini or other dried mushrooms - Substitute with dried shiitake mushrooms: Dried shiitake mushrooms have a similar umami flavor and can provide a rich, earthy taste to the risotto.
arborio rice - Substitute with carnaroli rice: Carnaroli rice has a similar creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors, making it a suitable substitute for arborio rice in risotto recipes.
low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a savory base for the risotto and complements the earthy flavors of the mushrooms.
mild goat cheese - Substitute with creamy feta cheese: Creamy feta cheese can offer a tangy and creamy element to the risotto, similar to the mild goat cheese.
parmesan - Substitute with grana padano: Grana Padano cheese has a similar nutty and savory flavor profile to Parmesan and can be used as a substitute in the risotto recipe.

How to Beautifully Present Porcini Mushroom Risotto

Elevate the plating: When presenting the risotto, consider using a ring mold to create a neat and compact mound of risotto at the center of the plate. This will give the dish a refined and elegant appearance.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped chives or parsley over the risotto to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. This will enhance the visual appeal and provide a subtle contrast to the rich flavors.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crispy element to the dish, such as a delicate parmesan crisp or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs, to introduce a textural contrast and elevate the overall dining experience.
Highlight the goat cheese: Crumble a small amount of mild goat cheese on top of the risotto just before serving to showcase the creamy and tangy flavors of the cheese, adding a luxurious touch to the presentation.
Artful drizzle: Finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil in a deliberate and artistic manner, creating a visually appealing pattern on the plate while enhancing the flavors of the risotto.
Attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the plate to ensure a clean presentation, paying attention to every detail to showcase the precision and care that goes into the creation of the dish.
Balance and symmetry: Aim for a balanced and symmetrical arrangement of components on the plate, creating visual harmony and demonstrating a meticulous approach to plating.
Use of negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the risotto to be the focal point while maintaining an elegant and uncluttered presentation.
Elevate with edible flowers: Consider adorning the dish with a few edible flowers, such as microgreens or nasturtium blooms, to introduce a touch of sophistication and a delicate floral essence to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Risotto

Medium bowl: A medium-sized bowl is perfect for soaking the dried mushrooms in hot water.
Sieve: A sieve is used to strain the soaking liquid from the mushrooms into a saucepan.
Medium saucepan: This is used to simmer the strained soaking liquid along with the chicken broth.
Medium pot: A medium-sized pot is used to cook the risotto, sauté the onions and garlic, and toast the rice.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the risotto as it cooks, allowing for even distribution of ingredients.
Grater: A grater is used to grate the parmesan cheese for serving the risotto.
Paper towels: Paper towels are used to line the sieve when straining the soaking liquid from the mushrooms.

Storing and Freezing Porcini Mushroom Risotto

To store leftover risotto, allow it to cool to room temperature first. Transfer the cooled risotto to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating refrigerated risotto, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the consistency and prevent it from drying out. Heat it gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through.
To freeze risotto, portion it into individual serving sizes and transfer to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label the containers with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen risotto, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, transfer the risotto to a saucepan and add a small amount of chicken broth or water. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it's heated through and has reached the desired consistency. You may need to add more liquid as needed to achieve the right texture.
Note: The texture of the risotto may change slightly after freezing and reheating, as the rice may become softer and the dish may lose some of its creaminess. However, it will still be delicious and satisfying.
If you plan to freeze the risotto, consider undercooking it slightly before freezing. This way, when you reheat it, the rice will have a better texture and won't become too mushy.
When reheating risotto, you can also add fresh parmesan cheese, a pat of butter, or some chopped fresh herbs to help revive the flavors and add a fresh touch to the dish.

How To Reheat Leftover Risotto

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover risotto to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the oven and reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the risotto is heated through. Stir the risotto occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent it from drying out.
For a quicker method, reheat the risotto in the microwave. Transfer the risotto to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the risotto is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the risotto, as it can become dry and lose its creamy texture.
If you prefer a creamier texture, reheat the risotto on the stovetop. Place the risotto in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan and stir the risotto constantly until it is heated through and has reached your desired consistency. You may need to add more liquid as you go to maintain the creamy texture.
For a crispy twist, transform your leftover risotto into risotto cakes. Scoop the cold risotto into patties and coat them with breadcrumbs. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the risotto cakes until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Serve the risotto cakes with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
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 little extra salt, pepper, or parmesan cheese to enhance the flavors. If the risotto seems dry, add a small amount of butter or olive oil to help restore its creamy texture.

Fascinating Facts About Porcini Mushrooms

The Italian dish Risotto is known for its creamy texture, which is achieved by slowly adding broth to the rice. This method allows the starch from the rice to be released, creating a velvety consistency.

Is Making Risotto at Home Cost-Effective?

This dried porcini mushroom risotto with goat cheese recipe offers a high degree of cost-effectiveness for a household. The use of dried mushrooms and basic pantry staples makes it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. The dish's rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a standout choice for a comforting meal. On a scale of 1-10, this recipe earns a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is This Risotto Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The dried porcini mushroom risotto with goat cheese recipe is a delicious and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe uses a significant amount of oil and butter, which are high in saturated fats.
Arborio rice, while essential for creating a creamy risotto, is a refined grain that lacks fiber compared to whole grain alternatives.
Goat cheese and Parmesan add flavor but also contribute to the overall fat and sodium content of the dish.

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as mushrooms, onions, and garlic, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of oil and butter used in the recipe, or replace some of the butter with a healthier alternative like olive oil.
Experiment with using a mix of arborio rice and whole grain rice, such as brown rice or wild rice, to increase the fiber content.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Incorporate more vegetables into the risotto, such as spinach, asparagus, or peas, to boost the nutrient profile and add more texture and color to the dish.
Adjust the amount of goat cheese and Parmesan used, or opt for lower-fat alternatives like ricotta or feta cheese.

Editor's Opinion on This Porcini Mushroom Risotto Recipe

The combination of earthy porcini mushrooms, creamy goat cheese, and rich risotto creates a luxurious and comforting dish. The method of slowly adding the broth to the rice allows for a creamy texture to develop, while the addition of goat cheese adds a tangy and creamy element. The use of the reserved mushroom soaking liquid enhances the umami flavor of the dish. The suggested wine pairing with a Tuscany Chardonnay complements the richness of the risotto. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a sophisticated and satisfying dish.

Enhance Your Dried-Porcini-Mushroom Risotto with Goat Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crisp Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Carrots: Sliced carrots coated in a sticky honey sriracha glaze, offering a sweet and spicy kick to complement the rich flavors of the risotto.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy butternut squash soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. The combination of butternut squash, onions, and a hint of nutmeg creates a rich and velvety soup that will warm you from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: This grilled lemon herb chicken is bursting with flavor. The marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs infuses the chicken with a zesty and aromatic taste. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.

Mixed Berry Cobbler: This mixed berry cobbler is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh berries. The buttery, golden crust pairs perfectly with the juicy, tart berries, creating a mouthwatering treat that is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Porcini Risotto

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: For a savory and satisfying appetizer, try making stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering or party.

Bruschetta: Create a refreshing and vibrant bruschetta appetizer by topping toasted bread with a mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. This classic Italian dish is sure to impress your guests with its simple yet delicious flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy, buttery oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Why trust this Dried-Porcini-Mushroom Risotto with Goat Cheese Recipe:

This recipe uses high-quality ingredients such as porcini mushrooms, arborio rice, and goat cheese, ensuring a rich and flavorful dish. The method carefully infuses the risotto with the essence of the dried mushrooms and utilizes the reserved soaking liquid to enhance the depth of flavor. The addition of butter and parmesan further enriches the dish, creating a creamy and indulgent texture. The wine recommendation showcases an understanding of flavor pairings, adding a sophisticated touch. Overall, this recipe demonstrates a thoughtful approach to creating a delicious and trustworthy dish.

Want to share your experience making Dried-Porcini-Mushroom Risotto with Goat Cheese or discuss the recipe further? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How can I substitute the dried porcini mushrooms if I can't find them?

You can substitute the dried porcini mushrooms with other dried mushrooms such as shiitake or morel mushrooms. You can also use fresh mushrooms, but the flavor may be slightly different.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this risotto. It will still provide a delicious flavor and work well with the other ingredients.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can make this recipe vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the goat cheese. You can also substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make it completely vegetarian.

Can I prepare the dried mushrooms in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dried mushrooms in advance by soaking them in hot water until softened. Once softened, you can chop them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to use them in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?

Yes, if you're not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with other mild and creamy cheeses such as mascarpone or cream cheese. These alternatives will still add a rich and creamy texture to the risotto.