Mushroom and Leek Risotto
Creamy, earthy, and utterly delicious, this vegan mushroom and leek risotto is the perfect comfort food for a cold night. Arborio rice is cooked in a flavorful broth made with leeks, mushrooms, garlic, and white wine, until it's tender and creamy. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese adds a cheesy flavor and richness to the dish, making it a satisfying and indulgent meal.
Risotto, a classic Italian dish made with rice, broth, and vegetables, has a long and storied history. The earliest known risotto recipes date back to the 16th century, and the dish is thought to have originated in the northern Italian region of Lombardy. Over the centuries, risotto has evolved into a multitude of variations, each with its own unique flavor and ingredients. This vegan mushroom and leek risotto is a modern take on the classic dish, using plant-based ingredients to create a creamy and flavorful meal.
Mushroom and Leek Risotto Mushroom and Leek Risotto Mushroom and Leek Risotto Mushroom and Leek Risotto
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped leeks (white and light green parts only)
  • 1 cup chopped mushrooms
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup arborio rice
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
  • 4 cups vegetable stock
  • 1/4 cup grated vegan Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast)
  • salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the leeks and mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute, or until the rice is translucent.
  5. If using, stir in the white wine and cook until it has reduced by half.
  6. Add the vegetable stock, 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.
  7. Continue cooking for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and has a creamy texture.
  8. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why It Works
  • The combination of leeks, mushrooms, and garlic creates a rich and earthy flavor base for the risotto.
  • The arborio rice is cooked in a flavorful broth made with vegetable stock and white wine, which helps to develop its creamy texture.
  • The nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese adds a cheesy flavor and richness to the dish, making it a satisfying and indulgent meal.