Risotto is a term for traditional Italian dishes that use rice as the main ingredient. Risotto recipes are made by combining short grain rice with a variety of ingredients to make a delicious dish which is commonly served prior to the main course for dinner. However, risotto may be served with classic dishes such as Ossobuco alla Milanese, which is a popular veal and vegetable dish made combined with stock and white wine. When served with the veal dish, it is served as an entree. When making risotto, a vegetable, meat, or fish stock may be used.

The reasoning behind using short grain rice to make risotto, is that it has a more sticky consistency than long grain rice. When it's cooked, the starches in the rice are released, creating a much thicker sauce than long grain rice. Each person has their own variations of the dish, and the type of rice used to make risotto, varies with each cook. Cooks in Italy usually use one of several varieties of rice for their risotto recipes, and the flavor and consistency of the dish will vary depending upon which one is used. Vialone Nano and Carnaroli are both high quality products, but are more expensive than some of the others. Carnaroli is more difficult to be overcooked, and is a good choice for anyone who isn't experienced in making risotto dishes. Roma, Baldo, Padano, and Arbario rice may be used. To create a dish with the best consistency, Vialone Nano is the choice of many cooks, since it absorbs liquid and spices better than most varieties. Originario and the other varieties previously mentioned are suited well for making soups and other dishes.

Hundreds of risotto recipes are available, but no matter which condiments and additional ingredients are used, they all begin with cooking the rice. The soffritto, or base, is started by combining either garlic or onion with butter or olive oil to coat the rice. If using olive oil, pure virgin olive oil is the best. The rice mixture is then combined with red or white wine, depending upon your personal preference. When the wine is absorbed by the rice, the stock is added, a little bit at a time while the rice is stirred to prevent sticking. When the liquid is absorbed, a mixture of butter which has been diced, and grated Italian Parmigiano Reggiano cheese are stirred in to give the risotto a cream-like texture. For risotto to be cooked in the correct manner, it should be al dente without excess moisture. When making a seafood or fish risotto, cheese isn't usually added, since it overpowers the flavor of the fish.

Risotto may be made in various combinations, depending on personal preference. Those who don't live in Italy sometimes make their own versions of the dish, but true Italian risotto is made basically the same way, with a variation on some of the ingredients. Seafood risotto may include shrimp, salmon, tuna, or prawns. A tasty combination of vegetable risotto may use mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, or any fresh vegetables in season. Meat risotto may contain chicken, lamb, or beef. The most important consideration when making risotto is to take the time to make it properly for the best results.