An authentic risotto is a deliciously-creamy, Italian rice dish. Risotto is very popular – even outside of Italy – for its simplicity and versatility. It can be made with very few ingredients or it can be transformed into something quite elaborate.

It is important to realize that risotto is not just a dish. The risotto method is also one of the four main cooking methods used to cook a variety of rice and grains. When cooked using the risotto method, these other grains will produce delicious “risotto-style” dishes.

In this lesson, you will learn how to make a basic risotto from start to finish. You will learn how to choose the proper pan, along with the type of rice or grain. You will also learn how to incorporate the right amount of liquid into risotto, how to test the risotto for doneness and how to finish a basic risotto.

In the next lesson on risotto, you will learn several ways to vary a basic risotto. Once the risotto method becomes part of your cooking repertoire, you will see just how easy it is to create a variety of delicious and satisfying meals. But first, it is important to master the technique of making a basic risotto because every other risotto – no matter what is added – will be based upon the principles learned in this lesson.