Imagine twirling your fork into a luxuriously creamy, vibrant risotto that transports you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Italy with every single bite. This Creamy Tomato Basil Risotto isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner game and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the chicken or vegetable broth in a separate saucepan and keep it simmering on low heat. This ensures the broth is hot when added to the rice.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Arborio rice to the pan and toast the grains for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps to develop a nutty flavor and creates a protective coating on the rice.
- Pour in a ladleful of hot broth and stir continuously. Allow the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladleful. This slow addition and constant stirring helps release the rice's starches, creating the signature creamy texture of risotto.
- When the rice is about halfway cooked (around 10-12 minutes), add the diced tomatoes and continue the gradual broth addition process.
- Once the rice is al dente and has a creamy consistency, remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
- Let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to settle.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Arborio rice is crucial for authentic risotto. Its high starch content creates that signature creamy texture.
- Temperature Matters: Keep your broth hot but not boiling. Adding cold liquid will shock the rice and interrupt the cooking process.
- Patience is Key: Risotto requires constant stirring and gradual liquid addition. This isn't a dish to rush—embrace the meditative cooking process.
- Al Dente is Perfect: The rice should have a slight bite in the center. Overcooking will turn it mushy.
- Rest is Best: Always let your risotto rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the starches to settle and creates an even creamier consistency.
- Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Use fresh basil and high-quality Parmesan for the most vibrant flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 55mg
