Risotto rice

Risotto rice is a general term for short, starchy rice varieties that release creaminess during cooking. Well-known types include arborio, carnaroli and vialone nano. The grains slowly absorb liquid while still keeping a slight bite inside. This creates the characteristic creamy texture of risotto.

In the kitchen, risotto rice is mainly used for classic risottos with stock, butter, cheese, vegetables, mushrooms, fish or meat. The rice needs gentle cooking and regular stirring, so the starch is released and the sauce forms around the grains.