Shrimp and Mushroom Risotto: A Creamy, Savory Dish
Shrimp and Mushroom Risotto is a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy, perfectly cooked risotto. It’s a comforting, elegant dish that’s perfect for dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients:
200g Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 cup Arborio rice (for risotto)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking shrimp and mushrooms)
1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup mushrooms (sliced, any variety such as cremini or button mushrooms)
1/4 cup white wine (optional, for deglazing)
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (kept warm)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for added freshness)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they are soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Risotto
Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir to coat the rice in the oil and mushroom mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent around the edges.
If using white wine, pour it in now and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the wine has mostly evaporated.
Step 4: Cook the Risotto
Begin adding the warm broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time. Stir frequently and allow the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is tender and creamy, about 18-20 minutes. You may not need all the broth, so check the consistency as you go.
Step 5: Finish the Risotto
Once the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Add the cooked shrimp back into the risotto and mix gently to combine. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp and Mushroom Risotto:
Stir Constantly: Stirring the risotto constantly helps release the starch, creating that creamy texture.
Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh, high-quality mushrooms will provide the best flavor. You can use a mix of different mushrooms for more depth of taste.
Add Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier risotto, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter along with the Parmesan cheese.
Shrimp and Mushroom Risotto is a rich, comforting dish with layers of flavor from the shrimp, mushrooms, and creamy rice. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will surely impress and satisfy. Enjoy!