Vegan Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Have you ever made risotto before? I used to think making risotto was super scary and complicated, but in reality is actually quite simple. The truth is it’s one of those recipes that takes time and supervision. So this isn’t one of those recipes that make themselves. But trust me when I say that you are going to become obsessed with how delicious this Vegan Creamy Mushroom Risotto recipe turns out. 

Don’t let any of that intimidate you though, because once you’re done making your risotto you are going to be proud and so happy with it! I love risotto, the creaminess, the bold flavors, it’s so satisfying and so delicious. 

There are so many different types of risotto recipes out there, but there is something so classic and delicious about a creamy mushroom risotto. In true, Girl Appetit fashion, this recipe is dairy free and made with real simple ingredients. 

What Exactly IS Risotto, Anyway?

Risotto is a classic creamy Italian rice dish. Unlike regular rice that you simmer in a pot of hot water, risotto is slowly made and water is added little by little throughout the cooking process. 

The perfect risotto is creamy and savory and typically made with broth, white wine and parmesan cheese. But don’t worry, this vegan version of the classic Italian risotto is just as creamy and delicious as the real thing. 

What type of rice should you use when making mushroom risotto?

For this recipe, I have used Carnaroli rice which has been nicknamed the “king” or “caviar” of risotto rice. There are two types of rice that are typically used when making risotto; Carnaroli and Arborio. You are probably wondering, what’s the difference? Carnaroli rice has a medium grain that is short and thick and is almost impossible to overcook. Because it is so high in starch, Carnaroli rice leaves a nice creamy texture when cooked which is why it’s so perfect for risotto.

Tips on how to make the perfect vegan creamy mushroom risotto

• Prep ahead all of the ingredients you will be using for this dish. Mince, chop and measure out everything you need so there is no stress during the cooking process. 
• Risotto requires you to use warm broth, so make sure that you have heated your broth ahead of time and it is ready to go.
• Be patient! My recipe calls for 4 cups of vegetable broth. Initially you will add in 2 cups of warmed broth, but you will be adding in the rest ½ cup at a time. 
• Only add in the next ½ cup of broth once the previous ½ cup has absorbed/evaporated
• Make sure you babysit your risotto as you are making it. You’ll need to frequently mix your risotto as it cooks to ensure it doesn’t stick or burn.

Why I cook the mushrooms separately

I like to make the mushrooms separately because I prefer to have them perfectly sautéed and crispy before adding them to the creamy vegan risotto. You are more than welcome to cook it right into the pot along with the rest of the risotto ingredients, but I highly suggest you do it this way!

When you’re cooking lots of mushrooms at once they can easily get watery and mushy, so it’s a good idea to cook them gradually and avoid over crowding the pan right off the bat. I also suggest you avoid salting them as they will release a ton of liquid once salt is added to them while they cook.

Directions to make the buttery mushrooms

1. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add in 2-3 tbsp vegan butter and melt down.
2. Add in about ⅓ of the sliced mushrooms and cook down for about 4 minutes occasionally mixing. 
3. Add in the rest of the mushrooms little by little. Every 3 minutes or so until you have added in all of the sliced mushrooms. 
4. Be sure to not overmix the mushrooms as they cook to avoid them releasing too much water. 
5. Since you are making a large quantity of mushrooms you want to continue cooking until any liquid has evaporated and mushrooms have slightly browned and crisped up. 
6. Once done, set aside (do not cover so they don’t get soggy).