Name: Creamy Saffron Risotto (Risotto alla Milanese) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Good pinch of saffron threads or ¼ tsp saffron powder; 1 ½ cups arborio rice; ½ white onion, finely diced; ½ cup white wine; 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 2 oz (50 g) finely grated parmesan cheese; 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Salt to taste

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Introduction

Creamy Saffron Risotto, also known as Risotto alla Milanese, is a classic Italian dish that combines the rich aroma of saffron with the silky texture of arborio rice. This comforting and elegant recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

A white shallow bowl holds a single layer of creamy yellow risotto spread evenly across the surface. The risotto has a soft, thick texture with visible grains of rice swimming in a glossy, rich sauce. The yellow color is bright and consistent, and the dish is lightly sprinkled with small white cheese shreds on top. At the center, there is a small garnish of thin saffron threads adding a touch of red contrast. The bowl is placed on a wooden board, and the background is a white marbled surface with a folded checked napkin and silver spoon visible in the upper left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Good pinch of saffron threads or ¼ tsp saffron powder
1 ½ cups arborio rice
½ white onion
½ cup white wine
6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
2oz / 50g finely grated parmesan cheese
2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Grind the saffron threads with a mortar and pestle or a small blender to create a rough powder. Add ¼ teaspoon of this powder into a small glass or ramekin with 3 tablespoons of boiling water. Let it infuse while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Finely dice the white onion. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat and sauté the onion until translucent. Meanwhile, warm the broth in a separate pot on the stove.
Step 3: Add the arborio rice to the onions and toast it gently for a few minutes, stirring constantly to coat the grains with oil.
Step 4: Increase the heat to medium and pour in the white wine. Stir until most of the wine has evaporated.
Step 5: Add 2 ladles of the hot broth along with a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 6: Continue adding the broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.
Step 7: When you have used about half the broth, stir in the infused saffron water to color and flavor the risotto.
Step 8: Keep adding the broth one ladle at a time, tasting the rice as you go to check for doneness. Once the rice is nearly cooked but still slightly firm, stir in the grated parmesan cheese and continue stirring for a few minutes to develop a creamy texture. Add more broth if needed.
Step 9: When the risotto reaches a silky, slightly wet consistency—not dry or mushy—drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use homemade or high-quality broth for the best flavor. Vegetable broth keeps this dish vegetarian, while chicken broth adds richness.
If you want a more intense saffron flavor, gently toast the saffron threads before infusing.
For extra creaminess, stir in a small knob of butter along with the parmesan cheese at the end.
Serve with additional parmesan cheese on the side for guests to add as desired.

Storage

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a little broth or water to loosen the texture and gently warm on the stove while stirring to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

A smooth, creamy yellow risotto fills a white shallow bowl, with visible grains of soft rice coated in a shiny, rich sauce. The risotto is evenly spread, showing a slightly thick and velvety texture with a few small white cheese shavings scattered on top for contrast. In the center, a few thin crimson strands add a delicate decorative touch. The bowl is set on a wooden board with part of a folded checked napkin and a spoon nearby, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of rice?

Arborio rice is recommended because its high starch content creates the creamy texture that defines risotto. Other short-grain rice varieties like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano also work well, but long-grain rice is not suitable.

Do I have to use white wine?

White wine adds acidity and depth of flavor, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute an equal amount of extra broth or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.