Creamy Thai Basil Shrimp Risotto
Indulge in the delightful fusion of Thai flavors and creamy Italian risotto with this Creamy Thai Basil Shrimp Risotto. Juicy shrimp are sautéed to perfection and combined with rich arborio rice, aromatic garlic, and zesty lime, all infused with the fresh essence of Thai basil. This one-dish meal offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it an impressive yet approachable dish for any occasion. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, every bite bursts with flavor and warmth.
4
Servings
180
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
canola oil
2 tablespoons (none)
shrimp
1 lb (rinsed and dried)
kosher salt
to taste (none)
fresh ground pepper
to taste (none)
unsalted butter
3 tablespoons (none)
garlic
2 tablespoons (minced)
onion
1 small (diced)
arborio rice
2 cups (none)
dry white wine
2 cups (none)
chicken stock
5-6 cups (hot)
Thai basil
12 leaves (cut into fine strips)
lime
1 (juice of)
Instructions
1
1. In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for about 1 minute, or until they turn pink. Season with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper, then transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
2
2. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of canola oil along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3
3. Stir in the arborio rice, cooking for another 2 minutes until the grains become opaque. Pour in the dry white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan and allow the liquid to absorb for 2-3 minutes.
4
4. Begin adding the hot chicken stock, one half cup at a time, allowing the rice to absorb each addition before adding more. Stir frequently, cooking until the rice is al dente, approximately 10 minutes.
5
5. Once the rice is cooked, return the sautéed shrimp to the pan. Add the sliced Thai basil, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and the lime juice. Stir to combine all the ingredients well. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
6
6. Serve immediately in a large dish, garnished with additional Thai basil if desired.
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
19g
Carbs
14g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Thai Basil Shrimp Risotto?
It is a fusion dish that combines the creamy texture of Italian risotto with the aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine, featuring shrimp, Thai basil, and lime.
What type of rice is used in this recipe?
This recipe requires 2 cups of arborio rice, which is essential for creating the characteristic creamy texture of risotto.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the nutritional facts per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, 7g of fat, 19g of carbohydrates, and 14g of protein.
Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?
While you can use regular basil in a pinch, Thai basil is recommended for its unique anise-like flavor that defines the Thai fusion element of this dish.
How do I prepare the shrimp?
You should use 1 lb of shrimp that has been rinsed and dried. Sauté them in canola oil for about 1 minute until pink, then set aside.
What kind of wine should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of dry white wine to deglaze the pan and add depth to the risotto.
Why do I need to add chicken stock gradually?
Adding the hot chicken stock one half cup at a time allows the rice to absorb the liquid slowly, which releases starches and creates a creamy consistency.
Does the chicken stock need to be hot?
Yes, using 5-6 cups of hot chicken stock ensures the cooking temperature remains consistent while the rice absorbs the liquid.
What aromatics are used in this risotto?
The dish uses 2 tablespoons of minced garlic and 1 small diced onion sautéed in butter and oil.
How long does it take to cook the arborio rice?
After the wine is absorbed, it takes approximately 10 minutes of stirring and adding stock until the rice reaches an al dente texture.
When do I add the Thai basil?
The 12 leaves of Thai basil, cut into fine strips, are added at the very end along with the final butter and lime juice.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
A total of 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter is used: 1 tablespoon for sautéing aromatics and 2 tablespoons to finish the dish.
What role does the lime play in this dish?
The juice of one lime is added at the end to provide a zesty acidity that balances the richness of the butter and risotto.
What type of oil is best for sautéing the shrimp?
The recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of canola oil for its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is considered a one-dish meal as the protein, starch, and flavors are all prepared in a single large saucepan.
How should I season the risotto?
Season the shrimp with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper initially, then taste and adjust the final dish with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, as long as they are completely thawed, rinsed, and dried before sautéing.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve immediately in a large dish and garnish with additional Thai basil if desired.
What if my rice is still crunchy after 10 minutes?
Continue adding hot chicken stock in small increments and stirring until the rice reaches a tender but firm 'al dente' texture.
Is this dish spicy?
As written, it is flavorful but not spicy. You can add chili flakes if you prefer heat.
How do I prep the Thai basil?
The 12 leaves should be cut into fine strips (chiffonade) before being stirred into the rice.
Can I substitute the chicken stock?
Yes, you can use vegetable stock if you prefer, though chicken stock provides a traditional savory depth.
What is the texture of the rice before adding wine?
The arborio rice should be stirred with the aromatics for about 2 minutes until the grains become opaque.
Can I use salted butter?
You can, but you should reduce the amount of added kosher salt to avoid making the dish too salty.
Is there a specific way to dice the onion?
A fine dice is best so that the onion pieces blend smoothly into the creamy texture of the risotto.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Risotto is best served immediately, as it loses its creamy consistency and becomes thick as it sits.
What makes this dish a 'fusion'?
It blends Italian cooking techniques (risotto method) with traditional Thai ingredients like Thai basil and lime.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of minced garlic for a strong, aromatic flavor profile.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
The nutritional information indicates that fiber content is negligible for this specific recipe.