Description
This Creamy Beet Risotto is a vibrant and flavorful twist on the classic Italian risotto, featuring tender arborio rice cooked in a rich blend of vegetable broth and beet juice. Enhanced with grated beets, white wine, sautéed onions and garlic, and finished with creamy Parmesan cheese and butter, this dish offers both a beautiful color and a satisfying, luxurious texture perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups arborio rice
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups beet juice
- 2 small beets, grated
- 1 cup white wine
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the broth mixture: In a saucepan, warm the vegetable broth and beet juice together; keep the mixture simmering gently to ensure it stays hot for cooking the risotto.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the arborio rice, cooking it with the onions and garlic for 2 to 3 minutes. This process helps to lightly toast the rice and prepares it to better absorb the liquids.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine, continuously stirring until the wine has been fully absorbed by the rice.
- Cook the risotto: Begin gradually adding the hot beet and vegetable broth mixture one ladle at a time. Stir constantly and allow each addition of liquid to be absorbed before adding the next. This process should take about 20 to 25 minutes until the rice is tender and creamy.
- Finish with beets and cheese: Stir in the grated fresh beets, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy finish and meld the flavors together.
- Season and serve: Season the risotto with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired for added richness.
Notes
- Using warm broth and beet juice helps the rice cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
- Stirring constantly prevents the rice from sticking and helps develop the creamy texture of risotto.
- If you prefer a less intense beet flavor, reduce the amount of beet juice or fresh beets slightly.
- Sauté the onions gently to avoid browning, which can change the flavor profile of the dish.
- This risotto pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal.
