Creamy Leek Arborio Risotto
Indulge in the rich flavors of this deliciously creamy Italian risotto, expertly crafted with tender leeks and Arborio rice. This reduced-fat version retains all the comforting qualities of traditional risotto while minimizing oil and cheese, making it a healthier option for your dinner table. The gradual addition of warm chicken broth allows the rice to absorb flavors perfectly, resulting in a creamy, dreamy dish that's both satisfying and wholesome. Perfect as a main course, this risotto can also be garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch of richness. A staple in our household, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in yours too!
N/A
Servings
275
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken stock or broth
6 cups (heated to a simmer)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
leeks
1 1/2 cups (chopped)
arborio rice
2 1/2 cups (uncooked)
dry white wine
2/3 cup (for cooking)
freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (for stirring in)
salt and pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Begin by pouring the chicken stock or broth into a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Keep the liquid warm throughout the cooking process.
2
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add the chopped leeks and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
3
Stir in the Arborio rice, cooking it for an additional minute until the grains become slightly translucent around the edges, leaving a small white center. This step is crucial as it helps to toast the rice and enhance its flavor.
4
Pour in the dry white wine and stir continuously until it is fully absorbed, which should take around 2 minutes.
5
Once the wine is absorbed, add one ladleful of the hot stock or broth to the rice mixture, ensuring the heat remains at a gentle simmer. Stir constantly as the rice absorbs the liquid, which will take about 2 minutes.
6
Continue this process, adding the broth one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. This will take approximately 20-25 minutes, and the rice should be just tender with a slight firmness in the center.
7
Once the rice reaches the desired consistency, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper, mixing thoroughly until well combined.
8
Serve your creamy leek risotto hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
1g
Fat
42.5g
Carbs
7.125g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Leek Arborio Risotto?
It is a traditional Italian rice dish made with Arborio rice and tender leeks, cooked slowly with broth to achieve a rich, creamy consistency.
How many calories are in a serving of this risotto?
Each serving contains approximately 275 calories.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, this is a reduced-fat version of traditional risotto, using minimal olive oil and cheese while maintaining a creamy texture.
What type of rice is required for this recipe?
Arborio rice is used because its high starch content creates the signature creamy texture of risotto.
Can I substitute Arborio rice with regular white rice?
Regular long-grain white rice will not produce the same creamy result; Carnaroli or Vialone Nano are better substitutes if Arborio is unavailable.
How do I prepare the leeks for this dish?
The leeks should be chopped and sauteed in olive oil for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
As written with chicken stock it is not, but it can easily be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken stock with vegetable broth.
What is the fat content of this risotto?
This recipe is very low in fat, containing only 1 gram per serving.
Why must the chicken stock be kept at a simmer?
Adding cold liquid to the rice shocks it and slows down the cooking process; warm broth ensures even cooking and better starch release.
What kind of wine is best for this recipe?
A dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, is recommended for the best flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
Yes, you can omit the wine and replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
Why is it important to toast the rice for one minute?
Toasting the rice creates a shell around the grain that helps it maintain its shape and adds a nutty flavor.
How long does the entire cooking process take?
After the initial steps, adding the broth takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes of active cooking.
Why do I need to add the broth one ladle at a time?
Adding broth gradually and stirring allows the rice grains to rub against each other, releasing starch to create the creamy sauce.
Do I really need to stir the risotto constantly?
Yes, frequent stirring is essential to develop the creaminess and prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
How can I tell when the risotto is finished cooking?
The rice should be 'al dente,' meaning it is tender but still has a slight firmness or bite in the center.
What should I do if I run out of broth before the rice is tender?
If the rice is still too firm, you can continue the process using warm water until the desired consistency is reached.
When should I add the Parmesan cheese?
The Parmesan cheese should be stirred in at the very end, once the rice has reached the proper consistency and the heat is turned off.
Can I add other vegetables to this risotto?
Yes, peas, asparagus, or mushrooms would make excellent additions to this leek-based recipe.
How much protein does this dish provide?
This risotto contains approximately 7.125 grams of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
There are 42.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Arborio rice is naturally gluten-free, so as long as your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free, the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can use butter for a richer flavor, though it will increase the fat content beyond the 1 gram specified.
What is the best way to serve leek risotto?
It is best served hot in warmed bowls, garnished with an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
How many cups of leeks are needed?
The recipe calls for 1.5 cups of chopped leeks.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Risotto is best served immediately, as it continues to absorb liquid and can become gummy if it sits for too long.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze risotto?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the rice can become grainy and lose its creaminess upon thawing.
What is the best way to reheat risotto?
Reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth or water, stirring gently to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but you will need a very large pan and should be prepared for the stirring process to be more labor-intensive.