Recipe for Vegan Risotto That’s Creamy and Delicious

Risotto is a classic Italian dish that’s known for its creamy texture and comforting flavors. Traditionally made with butter and Parmesan cheese, it might seem off-limits for those following a vegan lifestyle.

But the good news is, you can create a deliciously rich and satisfying vegan risotto that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. By using plant-based ingredients and a few clever cooking techniques, this recipe transforms simple Arborio rice into a velvety, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, or just curious about making risotto at home without dairy, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. From the gentle simmering of broth to the final sprinkle of fresh herbs, each step brings out the best in this wholesome dish.

Ready to impress your family or dinner guests with a creamy, dairy-free risotto? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan risotto is a comforting, nutrient-rich dish that fits perfectly into any plant-based diet. Not only is it free from animal products, but it’s also packed with flavor and texture that rivals the traditional versions.

This recipe uses vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and a touch of vegan butter to create that signature creaminess without dairy.

It’s incredibly versatile, too! You can easily customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables or spices.

Plus, it’s ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions. The process is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

If you love dishes that feel indulgent yet wholesome, this vegan risotto will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice – the key to creamy risotto
• 5 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
• ½ cup nutritional yeast – adds cheesy flavor
• 3 tbsp vegan butter or margarine
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Large saucepan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle for adding broth gradually
• Small bowl for warming broth
• Optional: Wine opener

Instructions

1. Warm the vegetable broth: Pour the vegetable broth into a saucepan and keep it warm on low heat. This helps the rice cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add mushrooms (if using): Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Toast the rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan. Stir it well so every grain is coated with oil and heated through, about 2 minutes. This step is crucial for the creamy texture of risotto.
5. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until the liquid is mostly absorbed. If you’re skipping wine, use an equal amount of warm broth instead.
6. Add warm broth gradually: Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until the broth is almost fully absorbed before adding the next ladle. This process should take about 18-20 minutes. The rice should be tender but still slightly firm in the center.
7. Incorporate greens: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking so it wilts nicely without losing its color.
8. Add vegan butter and nutritional yeast: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vegan butter and nutritional yeast. This will give the risotto a rich, creamy, and cheesy flavor.
9. Season: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add lemon zest if desired for a fresh, zesty note.
10. Serve immediately: Spoon the risotto into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For perfectly creamy risotto, patience is key! Adding broth slowly and stirring often releases the rice’s starches, creating that signature texture.”

• Make it extra creamy: Stir in a splash of canned coconut milk or cashew cream at the end for an indulgent twist.
• Try other veggies: Substitute mushrooms and spinach with peas, asparagus, roasted butternut squash, or artichoke hearts depending on season and preference.
• Use homemade broth: For best flavor, try a homemade vegetable broth or check out our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating for inspiration.
• Boost protein: Top with toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan risotto pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled tofu steaks or a flavorful vegan sausage.

If you’re looking to expand your plant-based dinner ideas, check out our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more comforting options.

Conclusion

Making vegan risotto at home is easier than you might think, and the results are truly satisfying. This recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and comforting without relying on dairy.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or a side, its rich texture and subtle flavors will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

By embracing plant-based ingredients like nutritional yeast and vegan butter, you get all the indulgence of traditional risotto with a lighter, cruelty-free footprint. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that can be adapted to whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a perfect year-round meal.

For more delightful vegan recipes, don’t miss our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat after dinner.

Enjoy your cooking adventure and happy eating!

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