Mixed Mushroom and Tarragon Risotto
Overview
This delightful Mixed Mushroom and Tarragon Risotto recipe, lovingly shared from my cooking club, is not only incredibly flavorful but also remarkably simple to prepare, making it a wonderful option for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility, as you can utilize any combination of fresh mushrooms that look particularly appealing at your local market. Pair it with a refreshing mixed green salad drizzled with a zesty red wine vinaigrette to create a perfect, satisfying meal.
Recipe Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 2 |
| Category | One Dish Meal |
| Rating | 5 stars |
| Review Count | 5 |
Description
This risotto is a creamy, savory dish that highlights the rich flavors of mushrooms complemented by the aromatic hint of fresh tarragon. It’s an ideal meal for those who appreciate the comforting textures of a well-made risotto, and it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner while still being elegant enough to impress your guests.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 3 cups |
| White wine | 1 cup |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Mixed mushrooms (your choice) | 1 cup |
| Leek (sliced) | 1 |
| Arborio rice | 1 ¼ cups |
| Fresh ground pepper | to taste |
| Fresh tarragon (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ¼ cup |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 661.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 16.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 41.5 mg |
| Sodium | 293.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 92.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.5 g |
| Sugars | 4.1 g |
| Protein | 14.9 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Broth: In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken broth and white wine, bringing them to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Keeping this mixture warm is crucial, as it will be added gradually to the risotto.
-
Sauté the Mushrooms: In a heavy large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add your choice of mixed mushrooms to the pan. Cook for approximately 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms are softened and fragrant. When done, remove the mushrooms from the saucepan using a slotted spoon and set them aside.
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Cook the Leeks: In the same saucepan, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the sliced leeks. Sauté until the leeks are softened and translucent, stirring regularly to prevent browning.
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Add the Arborio Rice: Introduce the arborio rice to the pan, stirring it well to coat the grains in the butter and leeks. Continue to cook for about 1 minute, allowing the rice to toast slightly while absorbing the flavors from the leeks.
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Incorporate the Broth: Carefully add all but ½ cup of the warm broth mixture to the rice. Stir well to combine, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the risotto to cook for about 18 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently. This process will enable the rice to absorb the majority of the liquid and become tender.
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Finish with Mushrooms and Tarragon: Once the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, gently stir in the sautéed mushrooms and the fresh tarragon. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
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Add Cheese and Adjust Consistency: Finally, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it is melted and well-blended. If the risotto appears too thick, gradually add the reserved broth to achieve your desired creamy consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the risotto has reached the perfect creamy texture, serve it immediately while hot. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple mixed green salad and a tart red wine vinaigrette, rounding out the meal with vibrant flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Mixed Mushroom and Tarragon Risotto is a wonderful way to enjoy the earthy flavors of mushrooms combined with the freshness of tarragon, resulting in a comforting dish that is both elegant and satisfying. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or as part of a festive gathering, this risotto is sure to impress your family and friends alike.
