Saffron & Chanterelle Risotto

6 Tbsp. butter
1 Saffron & Chanterelle Risotto mix
4 cups hot water, divided
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese*

At our house, this easy mix makes risotto a weeknight luxury. With the rice included, all we need is a stick of butter and a cup of Parmesan from the fridge. In about 20 minutes, we’re sitting down to something special. Leftovers turn into arancini with red sauce, which is like a whole new meal.

Mellow vegetable broth, saffron, and mushrooms come together for a easy spin on classic mushroom risotto. To learn more, go Behind the Seasoning: Saffron & Chanterelle Risotto.

With Spice & Easy, cooking is as easy as 1, 2, 3! Just open, spice and serve. Each Meal Starter Spice Mix includes the pre-measured seasonings needed to make a quick, simple and tasty recipe.

DIRECTIONS:
In a wide, heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium heat and add Saffron & Chanterelle Risotto Mix. Stir for 1 min., or until mixture is coated in butter and aromatic. While stirring, gradually pour in 3 cups hot water. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer (uncovered) for 15 to 17 min., or until liquid is mostly absorbed, stirring occasionally. Increase heat to medium and add remaining 1 cup hot water. Stir constantly for 2 to 3 min., or until rice is tender and mixture is creamy. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. If the risotto is too thick, loosen with a splash of hot water; if it is too thin, stir in more Parmesan. Serve immediately.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
Top with fresh herbs and Parmesan.

NOTES:

For a vegan version, replace dairy with vegan butter and vegan cheese.

Tip: you can use the leftovers to make addictive Arancini, crispy rice balls that pair perfectly with our Classic Marinara Sauce Spice 'n Easy.

For arancini, form cold risotto into balls, roll in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat in bread crumbs. Fry in 375 degree oil until golden brown.

YIELDS:
Serves 6.

Saffron & Chanterelle Mushroom Q&A

What do you mix with risotto?

Typically, you mix risotto with water, butter and Parmesan, depending on the type of risotto you are trying to cook.

What is the main ingredient of risotto?

The main ingredient in risotto is Arborio rice, and is supplemented usually with Parmesan, butter, and water (or sometimes, white wine or broth).

What is the secret to creamy risotto?

The secret to a creamy risotto mixture lies in the butter and Parmesan you add to the risotto mix, which helps create a creamy sauce.

How do you make boxed risotto better?

To make boxed risotto better, some people add white wine or a chicken stock in place of water, but with our Saffron & Chanterelle Risotto packet, we don't think you'll need either.