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Creamy Pumpkin Risotto

This pumpkin risotto combines tender Arborio rice with velvety pumpkin purée, creating a rich and comforting dish with a vibrant orange hue. The process involves slowly stirring warm broth into the rice until it reaches a creamy, slightly al dente texture, resulting in a luxurious, velvety final appearance. Topped with Parmesan and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for cozy, elegant dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 liter vegetable broth keep warm
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 finely chopped onion
  • 300 g Arborio rice about 1.5 cups
  • 250 ml dry white wine
  • 200 g pumpkin puree velvety and sweet
  • 50 g Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 squeeze lemon juice brightens the dish
  • fresh handful sage or thyme optional, chopped

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pan
  • Ladle
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Grater

Method
 

  1. Heat the vegetable broth in a pot until it simmers gently, then reduce the heat to keep it warm throughout cooking.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble softly and smells fragrant.
  3. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and cook, stirring often, until it turns translucent and releases a sweet aroma, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes, watching as the edges become slightly translucent and the rice starts to look glassy.
  5. Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the rice begins to look glossy.
  6. Add the pumpkin puree to the rice mixture, stirring well to incorporate its vibrant color and sweet flavor.
  7. Begin adding the warm broth one ladleful at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each addition to be mostly absorbed before adding the next, creating a creamy consistency.
  8. Continue this process for about 20 minutes, until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite, and the mixture is thick and creamy.
  9. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth and brightness.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with more Parmesan or lemon if desired, then sprinkle with chopped sage or thyme and serve hot.