As the days get shorter and the chill in the air grows sharper, it's time to bid farewell to the light salads and welcome the hearty, soul-warming dishes that make autumn a season to savour. Now, if you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s not just bursting with seasonal flavours but is also a hug in a bowl, look no further! My Butternut Squash Risotto is here to tick all the boxes.
This dish is not merely a bowl of rice; it's a journey through a cascade of textures and flavours. Each spoonful brings you the creamy, comforting goodness of Arborio rice intertwined with the sweet, nutty notes of roasted butternut squash. It's not just a meal; it's an autumnal experience that takes you through the rustic charm of countryside kitchens.
And guess what? This isn’t just about indulging your taste buds. This vegan delight is packed with nutrients for which your body will thank you. The butternut squash is a powerhouse of vitamins A and C, essential for boosting your immune system, especially vital as we head into the colder months. The nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan adds a cheesy zest while keeping it plant-based and wholesome.
So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the kitchen, this recipe is a cinch to whip up. With simple, fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll have a gourmet meal ready to impress without any fuss.
Are you eager to dive into a bowl of this Butternut Squash Risotto? Let’s get that apron on and start the culinary adventure that awaits. The aroma of roasted squash and fresh sage wafting through your kitchen is just the beginning of this comforting autumnal journey.
Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe
Serves: 4 Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350
Ingredients:
1 medium butternut squash (about 1kg), peeled, deseeded, and diced into 1cm cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 litre vegetable stock
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
300g Arborio rice
125ml dry white wine (optional)
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (or vegan Parmesan)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh sage leaves, for garnish
Preheat your oven to 200°C.
Place the diced butternut squash on a baking tray, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and toss to coat. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelised. Set aside.
Cooking the Risotto:
While the squash is roasting, warm the vegetable stock in a saucepan over low heat. Keep it warm throughout the cooking process.
In a large, deep frying pan or a wide saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and soft.
Stir in the Arborio rice, and cook for a further 2 minutes, until the rice is well-coated and has a slightly translucent edge.
If using, pour in the white wine, and stir until most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Begin adding the warm vegetable stock, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing most of the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process until the rice is cooked through but still has a bit of bite to it; this should take about 18-20 minutes.
Fold in the roasted butternut squash, nutritional yeast (or vegan Parmesan), and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Gently stir to combine, being careful not to mash the butternut squash.
Serving:
Divide the risotto among four bowls and garnish with fresh sage leaves.
Serve immediately, and enjoy your homemade vegan Butternut Squash Risotto!
The creamy texture of the butternut squash paired with the nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan lends a comforting, hearty quality to this dish, perfect for a chilly autumn evening.
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What is the key ingredient in the Vegan Butternut Squash Risotto recipe?
The key ingredient is butternut squash, which brings a sweet, nutty flavour to the risotto, making it a hearty and delightful dish.
How many servings does the Butternut Squash Risotto recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve four, making it perfect for a family meal or having leftovers for the next day.
What are the nutritional benefits of the Butternut Squash Risotto?
Packed with vitamins A and C from butternut squash, this risotto is not only delicious but also nutritious, supporting immune health.
Is the Butternut Squash Risotto recipe easy to prepare?
Absolutely! With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, both seasoned chefs and beginners can whip up this gourmet meal with ease.
Can I substitute Arborio rice in the Butternut Squash Risotto recipe?
While Arborio rice is ideal for its creamy texture, you could also use Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice as substitutes.
Is the Butternut Squash Risotto recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
What can I pair with the Butternut Squash Risotto for a complete meal?
Pairing the risotto with a fresh, leafy green salad or roasted vegetables makes for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Can I prepare the Butternut Squash Risotto ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can roast the butternut squash ahead of time to speed up the cooking process when you're ready to prepare the risotto.
What kind of white wine is best for the Butternut Squash Risotto recipe?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal for enhancing the flavours of the risotto.
How do I store leftovers of the Butternut Squash Risotto?
Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.