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When the weather turns chilly and the skies are a bit gray, there's nothing quite like a warm, hearty dish to lift your spirits. Enter risotto, the quintessential comfort food of Italian cuisine. This creamy, rich rice dish has a unique ability to soothe the soul, making it the perfect choice for cold or rainy days. Among the many variations of risotto, our Cozy Comfort Mushroom Risotto stands out, offering a delightful combination of earthy flavors, creamy texture, and aromatic herbs that create a sense of contentment with every spoonful.

Quick and Cozy Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Warm up your chilly days with this Cozy Comfort Mushroom Risotto, a delightful Italian dish that brings a creamy, rich taste to your table. Made with Arborio rice, earthy cremini mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, this risotto is the perfect embrace in a bowl. Simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful experience that's great for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy the soothing process of making risotto and savor every bite of this comforting dish.

Ingredients
  

1 cup Arborio rice

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (heated)

1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking them until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

    Cook the Mushrooms: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced cremini mushrooms. Sauté them until they soften and turn golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste for an added layer of flavor.

      Toast the Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast for approximately 2 minutes. You’ll notice the edges of the rice becoming slightly translucent, which will enhance its flavor and prepare it for absorbing liquid.

        Deglaze with Wine: If you’re opting for the wine, pour it into the pot now. Stir continuously until the wine is mostly absorbed by the rice, infusing it with a rich taste.

          Add the Broth: Begin ladling in the warmed vegetable broth, about 1 cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid before adding the next cup. This gradual addition will take around 20-25 minutes and is crucial for achieving that creamy risotto texture.

            Stir in Cream and Cheese: Once the rice reaches a creamy and al dente consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Mix in the remaining tablespoon of butter, followed by the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well incorporated and luscious. Taste your risotto, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

              Serve: Carefully spoon the risotto into serving bowls. For a beautiful presentation, garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade mushroom risotto!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 35 minutes | Serves 4