When you’re craving carbs and comfort, risotto is your dish. We’ve made risotto a couple times for the blog before and you all seem to love it. So, with my newfound love for caramelized mushrooms, I couldn’t have imagined a better way to serve up a new spin on risotto. Shall we?
History of Risotto
Risotto is a rice-based dish that is believed to have originated in Milan, Italy. The first version was called Risotto alla Milanese and was traditionally made with butter, onion, white wine, stock, salt, saffron, and Parmesan. Since then, many flavor variations have been created.
Our plant-based version is not traditional, but is dairy-free and equally delicious!
How to Make Caramelized Mushroom Risotto
The base for this 10-ingredient, 30-minute recipe starts with warmed vegetable broth, which you can make yourself (for the win), or just grab some store-bought (our favorite brand is Imagine).
Next come shallot and shiitake mushrooms, which are sautéed until golden brown. Ideally, the mushrooms start to dry out a little and become deep golden brown and caramelized for the ultimate hearty mushroom flavor.
Caramelization happens when the mushrooms have plenty of space to touch the pan without overlapping, so use your largest pan or pot to ensure they have plenty of room to swim.
Once caramelized, it’s time to add your rice, some white wine, and fresh herbs. This is where the flavor begins to really develop.
Lastly, add vegetable broth a little at a time, keeping a consistent low simmer and stirring frequently until the rice achieves an “al dente” texture – soft with a little bite.
Once the rice is done, turn the heat off, add your vegan parmesan cheese (or just some nutritional yeast or other vegan cheese of choice), and stir to combine.
Mmm – cheesy, hearty carbs.
We hope you LOVE this risotto! It’s:
Hearty
Cheesy
Extremely flavorful
Comforting
Easy to make
Customizable
& So delicious
This would make a great weeknight meal when you’re craving something comforting and nourishing and need it on the table fast. It would also be great for hosting, especially when paired with something like our Best Vegan Meatballs, Best Whole Roasted Cauliflower, Vegan Ricotta Sun-Dried Tomato & Pesto Salad, and your favorite red or white wine.
If you’re into risotto, also be sure to check out our Mushroom & Leek Risotto, Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Risotto, and Creamy Vegetable Risotto!
If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo @minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!
Caramelized Shiitake Mushroom Risotto
Ingredients
BROTH
- 3 ½ – 4 cups vegetable broth (or store-bought)
RISOTTO
- 2 Tbsp avocado or olive oil (if avoiding oil, sub water)
- 3/4 cup thinly sliced shallot
- 1/4 tsp each sea salt and black pepper
- 2 cups sliced shiitake mushrooms, hardy / woody stalked removed (or other similar mushroom)
- 1 Tbsp coconut aminos (or tamari // soy sauce)
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh thyme (or sub dried)
- 1 cup arborio rice (works best here – we recommend not subbing other grains)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or omit)
- 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese (plus more for serving // or sub nutritional yeast)
FOR SERVING (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Vegan Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat vegetable broth over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce heat to low to keep warm.
- In the meantime, heat a large pan* over medium heat. Once hot, add oil and shallot and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes – stirring frequently. Then add mushrooms and coconut aminos and continue sautéing until the mushrooms are golden brown and caramelized. Optional: remove some of the shiitake mushrooms from the pan and reserve for serving – not necessary, but it makes a nice garnish.
- Add the thyme and arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally. Then add dry white wine and stir gently. Cook for 2 minutes or until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Using a ladle, add warmed vegetable stock 1/2 cup (120 ml) at a time, stirring almost constantly, giving the risotto little breaks to come back to a simmer. The heat should be medium, and there should always be a slight simmer (adjust heat as needed). You want the mixture to be cooking consistently but not boiling or it can get gummy and cook too quickly.
- Continue to add vegetable stock 1 ladle at a time, stirring to incorporate, until the rice is ‘al dente’ – cooked through but still has a slight bite. This whole process should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked through and al dente, remove from heat and add vegan parmesan cheese. Stir to coat (see photo). Taste and adjust flavor as needed, adding sea salt and pepper to taste or more vegan parmesan to enhance the cheesiness. If dry at this point, add a little more warmed broth.
- To serve, divide between serving bowls and top with reserved mushrooms, additional vegan parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley (all optional).
- Best when fresh, though leftovers will keep covered in the refrigerator for 4-5 days or in the freezer up to 1 month. Reheat on the stovetop with additional (warmed) vegetable broth until hot.
Video
Notes
*Recipe adapted from Food Network.
*Nutrition information is a rough estimate for 1 of 4 servings calculated with oil, with lesser measurement of vegetable broth, and without optional ingredients.
amanda c says
This risotto. This risotto is beyond words. This risotto is what you pay over $20 for in a restaurant. I added garlic at the same point you add the rice. I also added more wine too. This was amazing!!!!!!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Aw, thanks so much, Amanda! We’re so happy you loved the recipe! xoxo
Paul says
It was tasty.
However, I’d do the mushrooms separately and add them at the end, so they’re firmer.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re glad you liked it! Thanks for sharing, Paul!
Kristin says
This is a staple recipe in my house, I honestly can’t count the number of times I’ve made it. I’ve made it for so many people and often get asked for the recipe. I make it with rehydrated dried shiitakes and I usually make it with extra mushrooms. I’ve made it with nutritional yeast instead of parmesan and it turns out great! I like to serve it with broccolini or asparagus.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Woohoo! So happy to hear this is a staple recipe for you, Kristin. Thanks so much for the wonderful review!
Caitlin Rasche says
This was yummy and we’d make it again, but we warned it took us twice the amount of broth and 45 minutes!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thank you for sharing your experience, Caitlin! You were using arborio rice? Is it possible it was simmering at too high of a heat?
Tori says
I made this the other night, and the flavor was delicious! I used baby Bella mushrooms instead of shiitake, but I might try shiitake next time just to mix it up :)
The only thing is that the rice wasn’t fully cooked at the end, and I’m wondering what I did wrong. Was I supposed to let the broth be absorbed a bit before adding the next ladle full? I know the recipe says to stir to incorporate, and I thought I did that, but I’m missing something.
All in all, a fabulous recipe!!! I will be making it again soon :)
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Tori! Thanks so much for the review! It sounds like you didn’t add quite enough broth, you’re right to add a ladle-ful at a time, and then take breaks after you add the broth each time to let the rice cook and absorb 90% of that broth, then you add more and continue the process until the rice is 95% cooked (al dente). Hope this helps!
Steph says
I’ve been vegan for about 3 months now and this was not my first time making risotto — yet this is by far the best risotto I’ve not only made, but have also ever had. So long as you stick with fundamental flavors profiles and ingredients of this recipe, it’s easily adaptable. For example, I didn’t have thyme. I also had green onion I needed to use up, so ditched the thyme, added the green onion in with the shallot, and it came out delicious. One thing to note is that 15-20 is a bit on the short side for cooking risotto. I find it takes 25-30 to reach al dente. I’ll definitely be making this again, thank you!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoy this recipe, Steph! Thank you for the lovely review and for sharing your modifications! xo
Aviva Goldfarb says
This was absolutely delicious! I didn’t have shallots so I used diced onions and garlic, which worked really well.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Great! Thanks so much for sharing, Aviva!
Stephanie says
Made this with some freshly harvested shiitake from the garden, and it was great! I subbed dried herbs since I didn’t have fresh, and I made my own parmesan with pine nuts. It got a bit gummy (I think since I doubled the recipe), but it was yummy just the same.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
How lovely! Thank you for sharing, Stephanie!
Lynne says
I made this and added shrimp at the end…before you shut the heat off to add the cheese, I added the shrimp (I cut them in small pieces) with a little more broth, then once they were done I continued with no heat and adding the cheese. Came out nice and creamy and so good!! My husband said it was restaurant quality! Will definitely make again!
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Wow yay! Thanks for sharing, Lynne!
Jennie says
So delicious! Subbed pearl barley for Arborio, so had to cook a bit longer, but came out perfect.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad it turned out well! Thanks so much for sharing, Jennie! xo
Kawtar says
Loved it!
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay!
Caitlin says
She did it again, and I don’t even like mushrooms yet I was finding my way to a second helping. The beauty in this recipe is the patience while adding the veggie stock to get the creamiest tasting GF, Vegan, Dairy-free recipe. Thanks Minimalist Baker!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! So glad you enjoyed it, Caitlin! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Susan says
I just made my first Rissoto following your recipe total success thankyou it’s a keeper
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay! Thanks for sharing, Susan!
Radhika says
Can I substitute vegetable broth with water?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
It won’t be as flavorful, but it might be OK. If you try it, we’d suggest adding more salt.
Mark says
I used Soy Sauce and 3 different types of mushrooms and it came delicious. When re-heating I suggest you add some cream and a little more soy sauce to taste!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks for sharing, Mark!
Mandy Coss says
Loved this! Perfect fall comfort meal! Followed recipe exactly and it was delicious!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay! Thanks for the lovely review, Mandy! xo
Cat says
Delicious recipe, I used ghee and avocado oil and that was the only change. So yummy! Used unsalted veggie broth too
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Cat! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Legiope says
This is my quintessential comfort food. I know you said not to tinker with the grain, but farro is a great replacement here. It is healthier and lends a slight nuttiness. I otherwise followed your recipe exactly. The farro took all four cups of stock and about 25 minutes to reach peak creaminess. I sprinkled a few chopped toasted pecans on top of the parsley. So, so good.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks so much for sharing! We’re so glad you enjoyed it!
anjali reddy says
SO good!! Left out the vegan parm but still extremely delicious!!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing, Anjali!
Amber Vanderlinden says
To be honest this wasn’t my favorite. Maybe it’s just the broth I used but it turned out very salty! I feel like sage would have been a nice addition as well!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Amber, sorry to hear that was your experience! What type of broth did you use? It could also be the brand of coconut aminos? Some are saltier than others. Feel free to reduce or omit the salt and add to taste. Love the idea to add sage- thanks for sharing!
Cait says
Y’all. Make this. I love a risotto. But I’ve never made it because I know it’s a bit harder. This recipes makes it super easy to follow and tastes out of this world. We skipped the white wine even (turns out, I DID drink that bottle already, oops!). Super lovely complex flavors and the shiitakes add the best profile. When dinner parties are able to happen again, this may be my fancy dish that I bring out to the group. It’s so good.
P.s. I also really recommend watching the video to see how it comes together so you know you’re on the right direction. I also needed to cook mine about 10 more minutes than directed, but felt confident I was on the right track due to watching the video and reading the recipe well.
Thank you!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Cait! xo
Laura says
This looks delicious ! Would canned mushrooms work instead of fresh ? Would I need to reduce the cooking time ?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Laura, we haven’t tried with canned, but maybe? We’d say cook the mushrooms longer to help evaporate moisture and help them brown, but the cooking time should otherwise be similar. Let us know how it goes!
Courtney says
This is a go to in our house. We can’t stop eating it. We have to make extra!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! So glad you enjoy it, Courtney! Thanks so much for sharing =)
Isabella Gomez says
Delicious!! I subbed red wine and used sushi rice… only had salted roasted cashews so I put them in a strainer and shuffled them for a while to get most of the salt off and then used a little less salt for the parmesan. Sooo good my roommates couldn’t believe it was vegan
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad everyone enjoyed it, Isabella! Thanks so much for sharing!
Maddie says
Very delicious! Wonderful flavor
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Maddie!
Cristina says
Most delicious risotto ever. Have made this recipe numerous times with both arborio and carnaroli rice and it has not failed me. Yum!!!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Cristina! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Claire says
This was a super yummy, easy stay-at-home treat! I used about 12 oz of chopped Baby Bella mushrooms, and it was just the perfect amount. I also subbed chicken stock, a small yellow onion, and half a lemon instead of wine, then added in a cup of frozen peas at the end. I counteracted a bit too much dried thyme with a good dose of garlic powder. Combined with the nutritional yeast, it was a tasty, cheesy weeknight dinner!
Megan P says
Finally got around to trying this recipe, it’s been on our list for a bit!
Had to make a few quarantine adjustments due to ingredients on hand:
-Subbed regular white onion for shallots
-used Trader Joe’s Israeli Couscous for rice
– subbed oregano for thyme
– did 1/2 broth 1/2 water vs 100% broth
Followed the recipe process and it turned out delicious. I’ve always been intimidated of making risotto but this was easy. Just keep stirring…
End result was so delicious (as was the bottle of wine we cracked to make it). Will definitely make this again. This recipe seems to be tolerant of slight adjustments.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Megan! Thanks so much for sharing!
Natalia S. says
What can I say!? Another wonderful recipe! I didn’t have wine, so I used a little bit of lemon juice and the broth instead. It turned out simply perfectly!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Natalia!
Leigh Rauk says
Absolutely love this recipe! The last couple of times I’ve made it I haven’t been able to find risotto rice at the store, but had sushi rice on hand at home. The stickiness of the sushi rice actually makes it a pretty good substitute when you don’t have the risotto rice! So delicious!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks so much for sharing, Leigh! We’re so glad it worked well and you enjoyed it! xo
Melissa says
This was AMAZING and the best meal I’ve made during the now 7 weeks I’ve been social distancing/shelter-in-place. Like many others I’m craving richer, more comfort type foods than I’d usually indulge in, and wow did this fit that bill! I added some extra baby Bella mushrooms I needed to use up, and used sushi rice since I didn’t have arborio in my pantry. I only had one shallot so made up the remaining volume using a mix of diced leftover red & white onion. I cannot wait to eat the leftovers tomorrow!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Melissa! Thanks so much for sharing!
Ella says
This was delicious!! I made it as per recipe and it turned out super-fine?
Natalie says
The recipe was easy to follow. I went heavy on the mushrooms and added a little extra wine. Regular Parmesan used instead of vegan and WOW, what a delicious flavor!
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Great! So glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing, Natalie!
Anita N Regler says
This was delishes!!! I made it with parmesan cheese and garlic and added some pepper at the end.
Thank you very much for sharing.. ☺
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Anita! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Eric says
Made for the family- 3 kids under 9 – they loved it! Used soy sauce and green onions vice the shallot. Was delicious.
Lourelai says
This looks absolutely delicious! Sadly I have an onion and garlic intolerance and I imagine the recipe wouldn’t be nearly as good without those ingredients. Dana if you see this and have an idea for a substitute please let me know! I would love to make this for a date night kinda dinner.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Lourelai, we don’t think it would be quite as flavorful, but probably still tasty! You could maybe play around with using hing (asafoetida) as a garlic/onion substitute. A little bit goes a long way. Hope that helps!
Eric says
I don’t see onion or garlic in the recipe. Did I miss something?!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Sorry about the confusion! Shallot are in a similar family =)
Magia says
Thanks
Very easy and delicious recipe
Totally recommended
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing!
Isabel says
I made it with Basmati rice ( couldn’t find arborio rice) so I added a little bit of cream in the end, also added asparagus and it was delicious
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Isabel! Thanks for sharing!
Shevonn says
I was looking for something simple for dinner on a cold winters night and this was just so perfect. I have always been a little intimidated to make risotto but the instructions were laid out so clearly it removed any fears that I had. This dish overall was so creamy and savoury. I had just ran out of wine :( but I can’t wait to include it the next time I make it. It was hard to save the leftovers for lunch the next day. I added some additional chopped baby spinach to give it a little colour.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Shevonn! Thanks so much for sharing!
Anna says
Good but add a little less Tamari or coconut aminos. Recipe is also really creamy.
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Wonderful – thanks for sharing, Anna!
Amanda says
This recipe has become a staple in our house! It’s a perfectly easy dish to make and sooooo delicious and satisfying!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Amanda! Thanks so much for the lovely review! xo
Molly says
This turned out so good and it was super easy! Perfect for the weather getting chillier. I’m making a double batch next time…
I was surprised that you appeared to use the stems of the shiitake. Aren’t they too hard and woody? I’m used to leaving them out in Japanese cooking. I was afraid to use them in the recipe so I left out.
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
You know, if they’re super fresh it’s fine to leave them in. But I’ve found lately that leaving them out is preferred. I’ll add a note! So glad you enjoyed it, Molly!
Raymond says
My boyfriend and I made this for dinner. It was so simple with such detailed instructions. We made our own vegan parmesan right beforehand too. We felt very accomplished on a weekday evening.
Also there were no leftovers. It was too good to let it sit in pot.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! SO glad you both enjoyed it, Raymond! Thanks for sharing! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Julia says
This was so delicious! I’ve never made risotto before and I’m really proud with how it came out. My boyfriend even went back for seconds!
I would probably double or 1.5 the recipe just because I wish there had been more of it for leftovers!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Julia. We are so glad you enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Liz says
Yum! I doubled the recipe, and for added flavor oomph/umami also added a couple of chopped dried shitake mushrooms that I stepped in boiling water. For more veggies and color, I also added a cup of frozen peas at the end ater taking off the heat, they cooked through perfectly. Will definitely make again!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
So glad you enjoyed it, Liz! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Aline says
For me these were rather 3 than 4 servings for a full meal of a simple, basically one-pot dish, not fussy. But most importantly, super delicious! I finished it off with a little truffle oil instead of vegan parm, which was also wonderful. Will definitely make again :)
Sara says
THIS WAS AMAZING! I used basil instead of parsley. Also, I also am at 5280 above sea level and it took quite a while to get the rice cooked perfectly but it was worth the wait! My husband and I both loved it! I will be sharing this recipe with others for sure!!!!! Thanks Dana! I appreciate you!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thank so much for the sweet note and lovely review, Sara! So glad you enjoyed it! xo
Maria says
This recipe was delicious! My husband and I loved it. Was also good as leftovers. My only comment is that it took much longer than the recipe said to cook- probably 30-35 minutes.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks for the feedback, Maria! So glad you enjoyed it!
Sara says
Hi there! I’m going to make this tonight! One question, is dry white wine just white wine vinegar or do you mean white wine such as a sav blanc? Please let me know!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Sara, we are referring to a dry white wine such as sauvignon blanc or something similar. It can sometimes be helpful to ask someone at the grocery store for their recommendations. Hope that helps!
Sarah says
Hi,
Can Farro or any other whole grain be used instead of Arborio rice?
Thank you!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Sarah, we haven’t tried this with any other grains as risotto is traditionally made with arborio rice. But we have heard of others making buckwheat risotto, so it might work! Let us know if you do some experimenting :)
Katie Carr says
I made this recipe on a super hectic weeknight and as soon as I sat down to eat it – it was like going back home. It is the ultimate comfort food with the best flavor and so easy to make. It is definitely going in my regular rotation. I didn’t think I’d ever have an easy vegan risotto!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Katie. We are so glad you enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! xo
Katie Carr says
Sorry I did leave 5 stars but I guess it didn’t take!
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
xoxo!
Brandy says
Made this for the first time last night. Easy and very satisfying. My hubby said it was a “flavor bomb” and “my mouth is happy”. Try this one out – delicious.
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Great – thanks, Brandy!
Becky says
I love this recipe. I tend to make a 1.5x batch to make sure my husband and I have leftovers because we can never get enough. I love how minimal the prep work is. I’ve made this time and time again following the recipe exactly and it’s always perfect.
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Lovely, thanks for sharing, Becky!
Caitlin says
This deserves 10 stars! Fantastic dish that is full of flavor! We used portobello mushrooms instead of Shitake and it was still really good. Make this stat!!
Megan says
Made this on Sunday, and my house smelled incredibly fragrant and down right delicious (if that is possible). My boyfriend and I both LOVED this dish!! Thanks for the amazing recipe
Suee33 says
Made a version of this as – I could not find it when ready to cook – oops! But almost to the letter.
I added a really amazing Sonomic almost vinegar, kind of a balsamic type of seasoning, yummy. I forgot the tamari or coconut aminos. It turned out fantastic, added some oven roasted asparagus. Thanks for this variation, will follow exactly next time and enjoy it your way!
Athenae says
Had some shiitake I wanted to experiment with and I am sooo glad I tried this! Absolutely delicious, and I added some kale for more of a veggie boost! Perfect! Thanks for the recipe!
Canice says
I modified this for my electric pressure cooker and it was fantastic! I didn’t have white wine on hand, so I used 3.75c of hot veggie broth (the Better than Bullion No Chicken Base). I sauteed the onions for a few minutes before adding the shiitakes and then sauteed those for about 7 or 8 minutes. I used the 1/4c of nooch, a few shakes of black pepper, 2t thyme and 1t cracked rosemary. Once I stirred in the broth, I put the lid on and cooked it at high pressure for 5 minutes. Quick release and voila – delicious dinner before you know it!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yum! Thanks for sharing your modifications, Canice!
Stacey says
How did you prepare the rice? I would love to try this instant pot idea.
Kate says
I loved this recipe! I used nooch in it, then sprinkled a little vegan parm on top when I served it. I didn’t have any veggie broth, so I used chicken, and I added a squeeze of lemon at the end, which really brought all the flavors together. I also tossed some frozen peas in at the end for a little extra vegetable action! (I also skipped the wine because I didn’t have any!) I had never made risotto before – it always seemed really fussy – but this was easy and delicious. Thanks!
Cass says
I may have shattered a full bottle of olive oil & flooded my bathroom while trying to get oil out of my clothes while cooking this, but at least I had delicious risotto to cheer me up! 5 stars for the recipe even when made by a 1 star human being.
Shevonne T says
Our area has been hit with back back snowstorms, leaving us snowed in. I’ve been craving this recipe (made it in the past and the family has LOVED IT) but didn’t have everything one hand. I used vegan butter for the oil, yellow onion and garlic for the shallot, crimini mushrooms for the shiitake, Bragg’s liquid aminos instead of coconut, and left out the vegan cheese/nooch. I did use 4 cups of broth along as well as white wine. It turned out creamy and rich tasting. You really can’t go wrong with this recipe or slight variations of it. I did offer nooch on the side, for those in our fam who enjoy the flavor. Thanks for this wonderful recipe!
Hannah Ashford says
Made this tonight, had a lovely flavour! Will definitely make it again, served it with tenderstem broccoli and baby asparagus on the side, was loved by the Mr and my mum who both are meat eaters, although are eating much less meat thanks to your great recipes! My partner hasn’t eaten meat for a month and even when he did buy a steak,he ended up feeding it to the dog!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad everyone enjoyed this recipe, Hannah!
Olga Rakhmail says
Thank you for the recipe!
I made it yesterday with just one substitution – nutritional yeast instead of vegan parmesan. I had never made risotto before – I thought it was too complicated and hard to adapt to vegan diet. Both my Mom and my husband loved it and called it very restaurant-like. Mom asked me to cook it again some time soon. It was easy enough, I will oblige :)
Emilia says
I made this tonight and my kids devoured the entire pan. Soooo good!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! We’re glad to hear that, Emilia!
indi n says
HI just wondering if I can use basmati rice instead?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We highly recommend arborio rice for this recipe, but if you experiment with it, report back on how it goes. Good luck!
Jannis says
Basmati rice will break down in a mush, also its flavour can be overpowering – Risotto is a very fine dish with a delicate balance of flavours! Besides Arborio you can use other varieties of rice called Roma, Carnaroli, Vialone Nano, Baldo, Ribe, Originario.
Risotto gets its creaminess from using a starch rich variety, hence avoid Basmati at all cost as it won’t be creamy at all.
Judy says
I have NEVER made risotto, but this sounded delicious, so I gave it a try. What a delicious recipe–flavorful, fairly easy for my first attempt, and SO satisfying. I loved it. Thank you for sharing this.
Morgan says
Seriously delicious! My husband hates mushrooms so I also added asparagus for hi but he kept going back for more mushrooms. He even said, “I just love these.” We didn’t even get left overs because he kept eating more. Definitely making it again but putting half away before he can get to it next time!
Jen says
This was absolutely amazing!! My non-vegan family loved it, and it was the hit of Christmas eve.
This was my first time making risotto and it came out fabulous.
Greg says
Made this. I added 1/4 cup of go veggie vegan parmesan. I think it was too strong. I liked the taste better before I added it. I think I will make it without the vegan parmesan next time.
Gup says
Made this for a potluck and it was the favorite dish. Many people asked to take some home with them! Made it today for the second time. My husband doesn’t like mushrooms and devoured his share – even he thought it was totally delicious. I didn’t have dry white wine but the recipe was great even without it. Today I skipped on the vegan Parmesan also and it was still delicious. Will definitely make this again and again.
lisa says
Mmmm I made this without the vegan cheese and it was delish! Took me longer for the rice to cook but I also added more rice than the recipe said. Thanks so much! First risotto at home :)
Elizabeth says
I’ve just made this. Maybe it’s because I’m at 5200 ft above sea level, I had to put a lid on the rice while cooking so that it would become even al dente! And needed to cook about another 10-12 min. Otherwise, it tastes great!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks for sharing, Elizabeth! We are glad you enjoyed the recipe :D
Jaime says
This was so easy and so delicious with a creamy nutty favour! I paired it with some steamed broccoli with lemon juice. I also doubled it so we would have leftovers. I feel like the original recipe is more like 2 serving.
Sarah Randall says
I made this last week and my husband and I LOVED it. Such depth of flavor and total comfort food while still being healthy. Next time I’ll double because we ate this all up and still wanted more!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay! Thanks for sharing!
Danielle says
I’ve made this twice now; both times were successful and incredibly delicious! This is a new favorite for myself and my boyfriend. Thank you!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay!
Jill says
I made this for dinner. I’ve never tried homemade risotto before as I had heard that it can be a little tricky. However, this dish was perfect. Texture of risotto was good, the caramelized mushrooms and shallots were delicious! It’s a keeper for our family. Thanks for the clear instructions.
Ellie says
I LOVE mushrooms and this meal made me so happy, I can’t wait to make it again! I used a combo of shiitake and baby bellas. My first time trying risotto and it wasn’t as intimidating as I thought! It came together fairly quickly and dirtied few dishes, which is always a weeknight plus. I am not vegan so I did add a bit of regular parmesan cheese at the end, but I’m sure it would be delicious with nutritional yeast as well. I couldn’t believe how creamy and comforting risotto could be without all the butter/cheese. Thanks for another great recipe!
Stephanie says
I had a mushroom craving so we decided to try this recipe (first risotto we’ve made at home). We loved it so much, we went out the next day and bought more mushrooms to make it again. Definitely in our top five Minimalist recipes that we’ve tried.
Stephanie says
Forgot to add… we added 2 cloves garlic to it (because we love garlic) and that was great. Also, the second time we made it, we were out of thyme, so subbed rosemary, and that worked great as well.
Nicki says
Excellent recipe and very forgiving, I might add. I intended to make it as written, using dried thyme. I went to shake just a little more toward the end and I dumped a bunch of black pepper in by accident! There was no turning back so we ate it and it still came out fantastic. I’ll definitely make this one again.
Kristen Mashburn says
So delicious! I put more mushrooms because that’s what I had. So filling. We made a whole meal out of it! My carnivorous husband loved it too.
Jessica says
Oh…my…goodness… this recipe is delicious!! My very first risotto and I must say, I killed it thanks to your awesome recipe and directions :)
Followed the recipe exactly however; I did not have white wine, so just omitted it and it turned out wonderful. So good that I had to write my first review / comment ever!
Love your blog and have made so many of your receipes. Thank you for the amazing GF and Vegan options!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
So glad you enjoyed this recipe, Jessica!
Beth says
Would I sub the white wine with something else if not using? Not sure I want to open a whole bottle for a small amount..
Thanks, can’t wait to make this!
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
You can just omit!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
I would just omit!
Shivs says
First time making risotto and it was fantastic! We were impressed by how much flavor and richness we were able to get in the risotto (and without any butter!). I ended up using regular parmesan cheese, but it was nice to have healthier ingredients for the rest of the recipe. Thanks for a great recipe- excited to make this one again!
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
yay! Thanks for sharing!! xo
Lee Johnson says
This recipe turned out absolutely delicious! I used baby Bella mushrooms instead and we loved it. The rice stirred up rich and creamy as it cooked in the skillet. I used the nutritional yeast option. Instead of coconut aminos, I used Braggs. I used vegetable broth for my sauteing and dried thyme. I omitted the wine. We would not have guessed it was vegan if I had not made it myself. This was my first time making a risotto. Thank you for the wonderful recipe.
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Lovely, thanks for sharing!
Emily M says
This. Is. Delicious!!! I made this yesterday for a dinner party. They were skeptical when I said I brought a vegan dish and boy did I prove them wrong. This was flavorful, smooth and had just enough bite to keep it interesting. I’m writing this review while eating the leftovers. I used the entire 4 cups of broth because I added some extra mushrooms and it was the perfect amount. I didn’t have vegan parmesan cheese so I added straight nutritional yeast and I highly recommend doing so!! You don’t need it, but it adds that extra nutty flavor that I love.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! Thanks for sharing, Emily!
Dan says
Oops my last post didn’t include an actual rating ☺️
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks, Dan!! We appreciate the review.
Dan says
This is my first ever recipe review…. I had to because this one was perfect! Risotto can be tricky (for me lol), but this made it easy. Great taste and texture!
Elle says
As we say in the south, GURRRRRRRL!
84-year-old mom loved it, 14-year-old son (very discriminating eater) loved it and the cook loved it!
Next time I’m going to try rosemary instead of thyme, just for fun, but it was perfect as is.
Thanks, again, Dana. You’re my favorite “cookbook.”
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! We’re so glad to hear that, Elle!
Jonathan VanHorn says
Hi,
Going to make this tonight – thanks!
Huge question: do you have or can you point me to any more kid palette friendly recipes? I want to transition them to our meals but I need advice on how to train their palettes… any advice would be greatly appreciated.
PS- we have your book and I have been making your meals for 4 years:)
Thanks!
Jonathan
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Shucks, I don’t! And every kid is so different. I’d say let them have little bits of your main meal to get used to it, and then transition them more and more toward having just what you’re having. Hope that helps!
Jane Polcovar says
If I make this a day ahead, what is the best way to store it and to reheat it?
Thanks so much…
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
I’d recommend storing in the refrigerator and reheating in the microwave or in a small saucepan, adding more vegetable broth as needed to rehydrate.
Ilana says
THank you so much for your amazing recipes Dana!
I use and recommend your vegan recipes constantly.
Do you recommend making this a day ahead? It sounds wonderful!
If not, which of your main course vegan recipes are best to use when I need to make them one (or even better 2) days in advance?
Thank you ?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
This one will still be great a few days ahead! Enjoy!
Elizabeth Ferrier says
So easy and delicious! This will now be added to my routinal dinners.
I’m craving more already!! Your recipes never ever disappoint!
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks for sharing, Elizabeth!
quidagis says
Delicious – my first risotto!
Family loved it.
Risotto took 30 minutes to cook.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! We are glad your family enjoyed it!
Angie C says
Fantastic risotto!!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay!
Jessica R. says
I loved this recipe! I found it to be simple and fairly quick to make and it definitely lived up to the comforting and creamy description. A perfect meal for a chilly fall evening. I will for sure make it again.
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! Thanks for sharing.
Little Plastic Footprint says
This looks great! We make a wild mushroom and parsley risotto (get whatever selection we can from the farmers market) and that has always been a hit with guests. Never thought of doing it this way so thanks for the suggestion!
Majbritt says
Seriously, best risotto recipe I’ve ever made! My boyfriend who usually dislikes risotto, said this is the first one he ever liked! It’s just soooo tasty. Although it took a bit longer here for the arborio rice to get ready. I think it took me about 30 mins.
Loved your recipes xxxx
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay! We are glad to hear that, Majbritt :)
Brenda says
Do dried Shitake once hydrated work in this recipe? Or is it best to go with fresh ?
Thanks
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
I’d say it’s best to go with fresh. But I’d suspect dry would work as well. Let us know if you give it a try!
Kristy says
I bet adding the reconstituting liquid to the broth would be amazing.
Simon says
Happened to pick up some Shitake today whilst shopping then happened to see your recipe, so I thought I’d give it a go.
So easy and so delicious.
I always have to have something green on my plate so served with some steamed tenderstem broccoli.
Added a knob of vegan butter right at the end to make it a bit more creamy and indulgent, used nooch for the cheesy twang.
Another super easy, flavourful recipe to add to the collection.
Thanks for sharing Dana.
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks for sharing, Simon!
Erin says
This recipe looks amazing and I can’t wait to try it. I came to your site because I was looking for some sort of mushroom recipe to put in tacos. The caramlized mushrooms would taste delicious in tacos. Do you think that after caramelizing the mushrooms I could make the risotto in an instant pot?
Dana @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Erin! I haven’t tried making risotto in an instant pot, but I’m sure it’s possible. Let us know if you give that a try!
Ellen De Domenico says
My Nani’s Ellen, not Erin