Bring the flavors of fall to your table with this Pumpkin Risotto with Goat Cheese & Cranberries. This creamy risotto features Arborio rice cooked to perfection with pumpkin puree and warm spices, creating a cozy and satisfying dish.
INGREDIENTS
- Bone Broth or Vegetable Stock: 4 cups, warmed with pumpkin for a flavorful base
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup, for creaminess and a touch of sweetness
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp, for a rich base
- Shallot: 1, minced for a subtle onion flavor
- Kosher Salt: 1 tsp, to taste
- Fresh Thyme: 1 tsp, chopped for aromatic flavor
- Arborio Rice: 1½ cups, for a creamy risotto texture
- White Wine Vinegar: 1 tsp, to balance flavors
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, for savory richness
- Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped for garnish
- Nutmeg: ¼ tsp, to add warmth
- Fresh Ground Black Pepper: To taste
- Goat Cheese: 1 cup, crumbled for tanginess
- Dried Cranberries: ½ cup, for a touch of sweetness
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a saucepan, mix the bone broth or vegetable stock with the pumpkin puree. Bring to a simmer and keep warm on low heat.
- Step 2:
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and kosher salt, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the chopped thyme and Arborio rice, cooking for 1 minute while stirring frequently.
- Step 4:
- Add the white wine vinegar and then a ladle of the warm pumpkin-stock mixture. Stir continuously until the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 5:
- Continue adding the stock mixture one ladle at a time, allowing each addition to be fully absorbed before adding the next, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and cooked through.
- Step 6:
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, half of the chopped parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Step 7:
- Top with the remaining parsley, crumbled goat cheese, and dried cranberries. Serve warm.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of stock for best results.
Helpful Notes
- For a lighter option, use low-sodium broth.
- Adjust sweetness by adding or reducing the amount of cranberries.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Rina recommends adding a splash of white wine for added acidity.
- Chef James suggests toasting the Arborio rice briefly for a nutty flavor.