Description
This Cheesy Gochujang Risotto combines the creamy, comforting texture of traditional risotto with a spicy Korean twist from gochujang. Enhanced with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses and optionally enriched with heavy cream, this flavorful dish brings together savory, spicy, and cheesy notes perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, kept warm
Flavor and Cheese
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir thoroughly to coat the grains with oil and aromatics. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the edges of the rice become slightly translucent.
- Deglaze the pan (optional): If using, pour in the dry white wine now and stir continuously until most of the liquid has evaporated, infusing the rice with flavor.
- Add the broth: Gradually add the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Allow the liquid to be almost fully absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy.
- Stir in gochujang and cheese: Once the risotto is creamy and the rice cooked, stir in the gochujang, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the heavy cream if using, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and melted.
- Finish and serve: Remove the risotto from the heat and serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spice level.
- Using warm broth helps achieve a creamier risotto texture.
- White wine is optional but adds depth of flavor.
- Heavy cream can be omitted for a lighter dish.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and ensure Parmesan is suitable or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
