What Is Arborio Rice?
Risotto is a traditional Italian dish made by slowly cooking rice in broth. Arborio rice is a type of medium grain rice that is usually served as part of this dish. The best type of arborio rice for sushi is Italian rice varieties. Long-grain super fine rice is the most recommended option because it absorbs liquids without becoming overcooked and is available in major supermarkets.
The reason why cooked Arborio rice produces such a smooth texture is because it contains a lot of amylose, which is a kind starch. When cooked, this rice releases its natural starch, resulting in creamier and more delicious rice that is chewy and has a more silken texture than ordinary rice such Basmati rice.
- Also Read: Best Rice Cooker For Brown
Arborio rice for sushi
Arborio rice is another type of white rice that is popular for sushi. Arborio rice has a sticky texture that makes it perfect for making sushi rolls and other types of sushi. It also has a mild flavor that can be enhanced with different sauces or spices. You can use it for other recipes as well.
Sushi rice is not only used for sushi rolls. You can also use it to make other types of Japanese food, such as Tempura and Karaage.
Also read: Best Sushi Knife
Arborio rice substitutes
Baldo Rice
When you are looking for a delicious, creamy rice dish but don’t have the time to make risotto, Baldo rice is a great substitute. This rice is a short grain, starchy rice perfect for dishes like risotto and paella. You can find Baldo rice at most grocery stores, which is relatively inexpensive.
Basmati Rice
It is light and fluffy and has a nutty flavor. Basmati rice is a good choice for dishes that require a long cooking time, such as paella and risotto. It is creamy and thick and has a slightly sweet flavor.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a less expensive yet still delicious alternative to Arborio rice. There are several different types of brown rice, so be sure to choose one that will work well in your recipe. For example, long grain brown rice works well in risottos, while short grain brown rice is better for paellas.
Calrose Rice (Sushi Rice)
This short-grain, sticky rice is perfect for making sushi rolls and nigiri sushi. However, arborio rice is a good option if you’re looking for a substitute for Calrose rice. Arborio rice has a similar texture to Calrose rice, and it’s also short-grain rice.
Carnaroli Rice
When most people think of Italian rice, they automatically think of Arborio. This is because Carnaroli is more difficult to find in the U.S., and Arborio has become the poster child for Italian rice. However, Carnaroli Rice is the real deal in flavor and texture. If you can find it, by all means, use it in your recipes. But if you can’t, don’t worry – there are some great substitutes for Carnaroli rice.
Jasmine Rice
Nothing beats arborio rice when looking for a delicious, fluffy side dish to serve with your favorite meal. However, if you’re out of arborio rice or don’t have the time to run to the store, jasmine rice is a great substitute! It is a long grain white rice with a slightly sweet flavor and a soft, fluffy texture when cooked. It’s perfect for dishes like risotto and paella.
Red cargo Rice
Red cargo rice is an excellent option if you are looking for a substitute for Arborio rice. With similar texture and absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for dishes like risotto. Red cargo rice is available at most grocery stores and can be cooked the same way as Arborio rice.
Vialone nano Rice
The Vialone Nano rice, a long grain white rice, can be used as a substitute for Arborio rice in most recipes. The Vialone Nano rice has a slightly firmer texture and a nuttier flavor than the Arborio rice.
How to Cook Arborio Rice on Stove?
- To make a simple rice dish, warm 8 cups of vegetable or chicken broth in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
- Melt one tablespoon of butter in a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat until it starts to foam. Add a large, finely diced onion and let it cook for three minutes. Add in 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt to taste
- Add 2 cups of uncooked Arborio rice. Add butter and gently mix the rice. Stirring the rice for two minutes will result in translucent rice grains.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook for 20 minutes longer Add 1/2 cup white cooking wine and cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes or just until the pan is almost dry.
- Add one half cup of hot broth at a time, stirring almost constantly between each addition.
- Before adding the next spoonful of broth, wait for the liquid to be almost completely absorbed. Add liquid for 20 to 30 minuets, or until the rice has softened and the broth is creamy.
- Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and finely grained Parmesan cheese if you prefer. Serve right away and enjoy.
FAQ
Where to Buy Arborio Rice
Arborio rice is an Italian grain used to make risotto. It is also called arborio rice because it was originally grown near the town of Arborio (in the region of Piedmont) in Italy. Arborio rice is often referred to as “Italian rice” or “Piedmont rice”.
What Can I Add to Cooked Arborio Rice?
Additional Butter
Cheese
Fresh herbs
Sauté Vegetables
How to Store Arborio Rice?
Store uncooked Arborio rice either in its original packaging (which should be stored in a cool, dry place) or in an airtight package.
How to Cook Arborio Rice in a Commercial Rice Cooker?
Store uncooked Arborio rice, either in its original package or in an airtight Mason jar or tightly-lidded plastic container.
Conclusion
Arborio rice has a unique texture that makes it perfect for risotto and rice-heavy desserts. It can be used in any recipe where long-grain rice would normally be used. However, if you want to try something different, you can use other types of rice instead.