Pairing: Mushroom Risotto or Truffle Dishes

Mushroom risotto, a creamy Italian dish, combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms with the creamy texture of arborio rice. The dish is often finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, creating a rich and savory experience. To complement these flavors, wines with earthy, fruity notes and balanced acidity are ideal. Light to medium-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo enhance the umami of the mushrooms, while full-bodied whites like Chardonnay or Pinot Gris provide a refreshing contrast to the risotto’s richness.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • Arborio Rice: 1 1/2 cups.
  • Mushrooms: 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and porcini), sliced.
  • Onion: 1 small, finely chopped.
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
  • White Wine: 1/2 cup (use a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio).
  • Vegetable Broth: 4 cups, warmed.
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons.
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
  • Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or thyme for garnish.
  • Seasonings: Salt and black pepper to taste.

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Add Rice and Wine: Stir in the arborio rice, allowing it to toast slightly in the pan for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine is mostly absorbed.
  3. Cook the Risotto: Begin adding the warmed vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition of broth to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked to al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
  4. Finish the Dish: Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the risotto is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot with your chosen wine pairing.
  6. Wine Pairing: Pair mushroom risotto with a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Barbera to complement the earthy mushroom flavors. For white wine lovers, an oaked Chardonnay or Pinot Gris provides a creamy texture and acidity that balances the richness of the dish. For a unique twist, consider a dry Oloroso Sherry, which adds nutty, caramelized flavors that enhance the umami of the risotto.

Serve With

Chardonnay, Barolo

Learn More About the Best Pairings

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of the most popular and widely planted white wine grape varieties in the world.

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Barolo

The wine is celebrated for its powerful structure, complex flavors, and significant aging potential.

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Samplers

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