Parmesan Risotto

Directions

1. 1
   Warm the broth in a saucepan set over low heat.
2. 2
   In a separate Dutch oven or wide, deep saute pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. 3
   Add the onion and garlic and cook until they are soft and beginning to brown around the edges, 2 to 3 minutes.
4. 4
   Add the rice and stir thoroughly to make sure it is coated with the butter and onions.
5. 5
   Cook the rice for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
6. 6
   Deglaze the pan with the white wine, stirring and scraping the pan until the wine has evaporated.
7. 7
   Begin incrementally adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently.
8. 8
   Wait to add another ladle until the liquid has been almost completely absorbed by the rice.
9. 9
   This gradual addition of liquid is key to getting the rice to release its starch and create its own delicious sauce, so don't rush this step.
10. 10
    If the broth is evaporating very quickly, or the rice is boiling hard, turn the heat down so you just see a gentle simmer and occasional plop.
11. 11
    Expect this stage to take about 18 minutes, and to add most of the broth.
12. 12
    Begin tasting the rice after about 13 minutes to gauge how far it has cooked.
13. 13
    The risotto is ready when the rice is still a bit chewy, and the dish has the consistency of thick porridge.
14. 14
    When the risotto is ready, turn off the heat and stir in the Parmesan and about 1/2 cup chopped parsley.
15. 15
    Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
16. 16
    Serve immediately, spreading risotto in pasta bowls and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
17. 17
    Suggested topping with roasted shrimp but tastes great even without the parmesan!
18. 18
    Pairs great with Roasted veggies too.