Description
Bloody Beet Risotto is a vibrant and creamy Italian rice dish infused with the earthy sweetness of beets and brightened with beet juice. This strikingly red risotto combines arborio rice, fresh beet, and aromatic ingredients like onion and garlic, simmered slowly in vegetable broth and white wine, then finished with Parmesan cheese and butter for a rich, indulgent flavor and silky texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup beet juice
- 1 small beet, grated
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: In a saucepan, combine the vegetable broth and beet juice and warm over low heat to keep hot throughout the cooking process.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Toast the Rice: Add the arborio rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes until the rice grains are well coated and slightly toasted.
- Add Wine and Beets: Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Then add the grated beet and stir to combine evenly with the rice.
- Cook the Risotto: Begin adding the hot broth and beet juice mixture one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and tender but still has a slight bite.
- Finish with Butter and Cheese: Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the risotto into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
Notes
- Use warm broth throughout the cooking process to ensure even cooking and better absorption by the rice.
- Grate the beet finely to incorporate its flavor and color smoothly into the risotto.
- Constant stirring helps release the starch from the rice, giving risotto its signature creamy texture.
- Adjust seasoning at the end since both broth and cheese add saltiness.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and use vegan cheese alternatives.
Keywords: beet risotto, vegetarian risotto, arborio rice recipe, Italian side dish, creamy beet risotto