Classic Milanese Saffron Risotto
A timeless Italian staple with a golden glow that comes straight from the saffron. Creamy, fragrant, and rich with Parmesan, this risotto transforms humble ingredients into something truly elegant. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dinner party centrepiece.
🛒 Ingredients
8 servings
- 400g risotto rice (Arborio or Carnaroli)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 120ml (½ cup) dry white wine
- 2 saffron threads (or 1 tsp saffron powder)
- 1 litre hot chicken stock
- 5 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
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Directions
- 1
Heat the chicken stock in a separate saucepan and keep it at a gentle simmer throughout the cooking process.
- 2
In a large heavy-bottomed pan, melt half the butter over medium heat.
- 3
Add the chopped onion and cook gently until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- 4
Add the rice and stir for 2 minutes until the grains are well coated and turn slightly translucent at the edges.
- 5
Pour in the white wine and stir until completely absorbed.
- 6
Add the hot stock one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and waiting until each ladle is fully absorbed before adding the next.
- 7
When the rice is nearly al dente (around 18 minutes), dissolve the saffron in a small ladle of hot stock and stir it into the risotto, watching the gorgeous golden colour bloom through.
- 8
Remove from heat, add the remaining butter and Parmesan, and stir vigorously until the risotto is glossy and creamy. Season to taste and serve immediately.
💡 Chef's Tip
Real saffron threads make a noticeable difference in both colour and flavour — worth the splurge. Keep your stock hot at all times; cold stock shocks the rice and breaks the cooking rhythm. The vigorous butter-and-cheese finish off the heat (mantecatura) is what gives authentic risotto its signature silky texture.
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