Creamy Asparagus & Parmesan Risotto Delight
Indulge in this luxurious Creamy Asparagus & Parmesan Risotto Delight, where nutty arborio rice meets tender asparagus in a velvety sauce enriched with creamy heavy cream and nutty parmesan cheese. Cooking in a Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures a perfectly cooked risotto without constant stirring, making it a foolproof dish for any occasion. This recipe serves six as a delightful side dish, four as a satisfying first course, or two as a hearty entrée. Perfect for impressing guests or sharing a comforting meal with family.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Asparagus
4 ounces (peeled, cut into 1 inch pieces)
Unsalted butter
1 teaspoon
Olive oil
1 teaspoon
Onion
1/3 cup (finely chopped)
Carrot
1/3 cup (finely chopped)
Arborio rice
1 cup
Dry white wine
1/3 cup
Chicken broth
3 cups
Heavy cream
4 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (freshly grated)
White pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Begin by lightly coating the steaming tray of the rice cooker with cooking spray. Place the asparagus pieces into the steaming tray and set aside.
2
In the rice cooker bowl, combine the unsalted butter and olive oil. Turn on the rice cooker and let it heat up for about one minute.
3
Add the finely chopped onions and carrots into the bowl. Cover and sauté for one minute, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
4
Next, add the arborio rice to the mixture and stir well to ensure that each grain is coated with the butter and oil. Cover and let it cook for two minutes.
5
Pour in the dry white wine, stirring to incorporate. Cover the bowl again and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the wine has been fully absorbed by the rice.
6
Add the chicken broth to the rice, stirring well to combine. Cover the cooker and let it cook for 25 minutes, remembering to stir the rice 2 to 3 times during this process.
7
Once the 25 minutes have passed, place the asparagus-filled steaming tray on top of the rice cooking bowl. Cover the rice cooker and continue cooking until it switches to the 'warm' setting, which should take about 5 minutes more.
8
When the rice cooker switches to 'warm', stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and white pepper. Fit the steaming tray back onto the cooking bowl and allow the risotto to rest on 'warm' for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
9
Finally, gently stir the steamed asparagus into the creamy risotto. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creation!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Asparagus & Parmesan Risotto Delight?
It is a luxurious dish where nutty arborio rice meets tender asparagus in a velvety sauce made with heavy cream and parmesan cheese, cooked conveniently in a rice cooker.
What type of rice is best for this risotto recipe?
Arborio rice is the best choice because its high starch content creates the signature creamy texture of risotto.
Can I make this risotto without a rice cooker?
While this recipe is optimized for a rice cooker to avoid constant stirring, it can be adapted for the stovetop by adding broth gradually and stirring frequently.
How should I prepare the asparagus?
The asparagus should be peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces before being placed in the steaming tray.
How many people does this recipe serve?
It serves six as a side dish, four as a first course, or two as a hearty main entrée.
Is this asparagus risotto recipe vegetarian?
The recipe as written uses chicken broth, but you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting with vegetable broth.
What is the purpose of adding dry white wine?
Dry white wine adds acidity and a depth of flavor that balances the richness of the cream and cheese.
Can I substitute the white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth and a teaspoon of lemon juice.
How do I sauté the vegetables in the rice cooker?
Heat the butter and oil for one minute, then add the chopped onions and carrots, covering to sauté for another minute.
Do I need to stir the risotto constantly?
No, using a rice cooker makes this foolproof; you only need to stir the rice 2 to 3 times during the 25-minute cooking cycle.
When do I add the asparagus to the rice cooker?
Place the asparagus-filled steaming tray on top of the cooking bowl after the rice has cooked for 25 minutes.
How do I know when the risotto is finished cooking?
The risotto is ready for the final additions once the rice cooker switches to its 'warm' setting.
What ingredients are added at the very end?
Once on the 'warm' setting, stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and white pepper.
Why is white pepper used instead of black pepper?
White pepper provides a mild heat without leaving black specks, keeping the risotto's appearance clean and creamy.
How long should the risotto rest before serving?
Allow the risotto to rest on the 'warm' setting for an additional 5 to 10 minutes after adding the cream and cheese.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but you may want to taste the final dish before adding any extra salt, as parmesan and broth already contain sodium.
What type of parmesan cheese is recommended?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended as it melts smoother and has a better flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
Is it necessary to peel the asparagus?
Peeling ensures the asparagus is tender and prevents any woody or stringy textures in the final dish.
What size should the onion and carrot be chopped?
They should be finely chopped so they soften quickly and blend into the texture of the rice.
Can I add other proteins to this dish?
Yes, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would make excellent additions to this creamy risotto.
How much chicken broth is needed?
The recipe requires 3 cups of chicken broth for 1 cup of arborio rice.
What if my rice cooker doesn't have a steaming tray?
You can steam the asparagus separately on the stove or microwave and fold it in at the end.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your broth and cheese labels.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, though the result will be slightly less rich than using heavy cream.
Does the rice need to be rinsed before cooking?
No, for risotto, you do not rinse the rice because the surface starch is what creates the creamy sauce.
What does 'nutty' arborio rice mean?
It refers to the subtle toasted flavor the rice develops when sautéed in butter and oil before liquid is added.
Can I use olive oil only?
You can, but the combination of butter and oil provides a richer flavor profile.
How long is the total cooking time?
The total active cooking and resting time is approximately 45 to 50 minutes.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh is preferred for texture, but frozen asparagus can be used; just ensure it is thawed and drained before steaming.