Skip to main content

creamy risotto recipe

Authentic Risotto alla Milanese Recipe (Creamy Saffron Risotto)

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total Time: 35 mins
Servings: 4 | Cuisine: Italian | Course: Main, Side Dish

What is Risotto alla Milanese?

Risotto alla Milanese is a luxurious, creamy Italian rice dish infused with saffron, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Originating from Milan, this golden-hued risotto is often paired with Osso Buco, but it’s flavorful enough to stand on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Saffron Risotto

  • Rich, velvety texture with a distinctive saffron aroma
  • Elegant yet easy — perfect for date nights or dinner parties
  • A classic Italian dish that impresses every time

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups (300g) Arborio or Carnaroli rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (plus 2 tbsp for finishing)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 1 liter (4 cups) hot chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ tsp saffron threads
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1 bone marrow spoon (traditional in Milanese version)

Instructions

1. Bloom the Saffron

  • Soak the saffron threads in 2 tbsp of warm broth for 10 minutes. This helps release the color and flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

  • In a heavy saucepan, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (not browned), about 3–4 minutes.

3. Toast the Rice

  • Stir in the rice and toast it for 2–3 minutes until edges become translucent.
  • Deglaze the pan with white wine and stir until absorbed.

4. Add Broth Gradually

  • Add hot broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until each ladle is absorbed before adding the next.
  • After about 10 minutes, add the bloomed saffron with its liquid.

5. Finish the Risotto

  • Keep stirring and adding broth until rice is al dente (about 18–20 minutes).
  • Remove from heat. Stir in remaining butter and grated Parmesan. Season to taste. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes before serving.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Risotto

  • Use Carnaroli rice if possible — it holds its shape better than Arborio.
  • Stir constantly to activate the starch and get that creamy texture.
  • Never rinse the rice — you need the starch.
  • Serve immediately — risotto waits for no one!

Variations

  • With Osso Buco: The classic pairing — serve alongside braised veal shanks.
  • Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable stock and skip the bone marrow.
  • Milanese Style: Add a spoonful of bone marrow at the start for rich, traditional flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Risotto alla Milanese ahead of time?
A: Risotto is best served fresh, but you can par-cook it and finish the last few minutes before serving.

Q: Can I substitute saffron?
A: Saffron is essential to the flavor and color, but turmeric can be used for color (not taste).

Q: What wine goes with this dish?
A: A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Gavi pairs perfectly, both for cooking and serving.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve as a luxurious first course (primo piatto) in an Italian meal
  • Plate with seared scallops, roasted vegetables, or grilled mushrooms
  • Pair with a crisp white wine and crusty bread

Final Thoughts

This creamy Risotto alla Milanese recipe combines elegance and tradition with simplicity. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or cooking a quiet meal at home, this golden saffron risotto adds a touch of Milanese magic to your table.

🔗 You Might Also Enjoy:

  1. Mushroom Risotto Recipe
    A flavorful twist on the classic creamy risotto, packed with earthy mushrooms and Parmesan.

  2. Parmesan Garlic Mashed Potatoes
    Another creamy, comforting side dish that fans of risotto will love.

  3. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
    A quick and rich pasta dish with a similar flavor profile to risotto lovers.

  4. Butternut Squash Risotto
    A seasonal, slightly sweet variation of risotto with velvety texture.

  5. Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
    A perfect protein to serve with risotto — bright, herby, and juicy.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

spicy salmon sushi bites.

                    🍣 Crispy Rice Sushi Bites Recipe – Viral Sushi Appetizer You’ll Crave! 📌 Why You’ll Love These Crispy Sushi Bites These crispy rice sushi bites are the perfect blend of textures: golden fried sushi rice topped with creamy, spicy tuna or fresh avocado. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving sushi night at home, this viral appetizer is fun, fancy, and surprisingly easy! 📝 Ingredients (Makes 12–15 bites) For the crispy rice: 2 cups cooked sushi rice (short-grain, cooled) 1 tbsp rice vinegar 1 tsp sugar Pinch of salt Neutral oil (for frying) For the spicy tuna topping: 150g sashimi-grade tuna, finely chopped 2 tbsp mayo 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste) 1 tsp soy sauce ½ tsp sesame oil Optional toppings: Thin avocado slices Jalapeño rounds Black sesame seeds Chopped green onions Soy sauce for dipping 🍳 Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice Mix the cooled rice with rice vinega...
Post a Comment
Read more

albondigas recipe

  🧆 Spanish Meatballs Recipe (Albóndigas) | Savory Tapas Classic Craving juicy, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce? These Spanish Albóndigas are a classic tapas dish, packed with bold spices, fresh herbs, and rustic charm. Served with crusty bread or rice, they make the perfect party bite, appetizer, or cozy family dinner. 📝 Ingredients For the Meatballs: 500g ground beef (or half beef, half pork) 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1 egg 2 tbsp chopped parsley 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp cumin Salt and pepper to taste Olive oil for frying For the Tomato Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp sugar (to balance acidity) Salt and pepper to taste Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine or water 🍳 Instructions Step 1: Make the Meatballs In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, ...
Post a Comment
Read more

raspberry almond cake recipe

  🍰 Raspberry Almond Tea Cake – Elegant, Moist & Perfect for Any Occasion Looking for a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? This Raspberry Almond Tea Cake is a soft, buttery delight with a subtle almond flavor, studded with juicy raspberries and topped with sliced almonds. It’s the perfect treat for afternoon tea, brunch gatherings, or a light dessert. Whether you're celebrating a special moment or just enjoying a quiet cup of tea, this simple yet elegant cake brings bakery-quality flavor to your home kitchen. ✅ Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Almond Cake 🍓 Naturally sweet and fruity 🌰 Warm almond aroma and flavor 🧁 Light, fluffy, and moist texture ☕ Pairs beautifully with tea or coffee 🕒 Bakes in under 40 minutes with simple  🍓 Ingredients You’ll Need 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1/2 tsp almond extract 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (50g) almond fl...
Post a Comment
Read more