Description
A vibrant and creamy risotto featuring the rich, earthy flavors of beets and beet juice, perfectly combined with arborio rice, Parmesan cheese, and subtle hints of garlic and onion, creating a visually stunning and deliciously comforting dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Risotto Base
- 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Beet Ingredients
- 1 cup beet juice
- 1 small beet, grated
Finishing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the broth mixture: In a saucepan, warm the vegetable broth and the beet juice together over low heat. Keep this mixture hot throughout the cooking process to help the risotto cook evenly.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Toast the rice: Add the arborio rice to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice, which helps to develop a nutty flavor and improve texture.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until the wine is mostly absorbed by the rice.
- Cook the risotto: Begin adding the warm broth and beet juice mixture one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid before adding the next ladle. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
- Add fresh beets: About halfway through the broth addition, stir in the grated beet to infuse the risotto with fresh beet flavor and vibrant color.
- Season and finish: Once the rice is cooked and creamy, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the risotto onto plates and serve immediately while hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Use fresh beet juice for the best color and flavor; store-bought juice can be used but may alter the taste slightly.
- Stirring continuously is key to achieving a creamy risotto texture.
- Be sure to keep the broth mixture warm to ensure even cooking and prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
- For a richer flavor, you can finish with a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc.
Keywords: beet risotto, vegetarian risotto, Italian risotto, beet juice recipe, creamy risotto, arborio rice, vegetable risotto