Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Risotto with Goat Cheese & Cranberries
- Easy Elegance: It looks and tastes gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make.
- Comfort in Every Bite: Creamy risotto infused with pumpkin puree creates a velvety texture that’s pure comfort.
- Flavor Harmony: The tangy goat cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and earthy pumpkin make every bite memorable.
- Perfect for Fall: This recipe brings all the cozy autumn vibes to your table.
Tools You’ll Need
- Wooden spoon: For stirring.
- Medium saucepan: To keep the broth warm.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking the risotto.
- Ladle: For adding broth to the rice.
Pumpkin Risotto with Goat Cheese & Cranberries
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
There’s something irresistible about the creamy, savory flavors of Pumpkin Risotto paired with tangy goat cheese and sweet cranberries. This dish is not only comforting but also perfect for seasonal gatherings or a cozy night at home. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress your guests!
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Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh parsley or sage, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Warm the Broth
- In a medium saucepan, warm the broth over low heat. Keep it warm but not boiling throughout the process.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
- Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains in the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent around the edges.
Step 4: Add the Broth Gradually
- Ladle in about 1/2 cup of warm broth, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed.
- Continue adding broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to absorb before adding more. Repeat until the rice is creamy and tender, about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Add Pumpkin and Cranberries
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, dried cranberries, and butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and well combined.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg or cinnamon if using.
- Fold in half of the crumbled goat cheese, saving the rest for garnish.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Divide the risotto into bowls. Top with the remaining goat cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or sage.
Notes
- Warm Broth is Key: Keeping the broth warm helps maintain the cooking temperature of the risotto and ensures even cooking.
- Constant Stirring: Stir frequently but gently to release the starches from the rice, creating that creamy texture.
- Customize Your Toppings: Add toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Replace the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based cheese alternative, and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
Q2: Can I use fresh cranberries?
Dried cranberries work best for their sweetness and chewiness, but fresh cranberries can be used if you cook them down slightly with a bit of sugar.
Q3: What other cheeses can I use?
If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, try cream cheese, feta, or mascarpone for a creamy finish.
Conclusion: A Seasonal Delight!
This Pumpkin Risotto with Goat Cheese & Cranberries is a show-stopper, bursting with autumn flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for holiday meals or simply celebrating the season, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and share the joy of this delicious dish!
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Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite of this Pumpkin Risotto, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends!
