Arborio rice, Organic, 500g

500g organic arborio rice packed in our compostable, plant-based cellulose bags.

Arborio rice is a short-grain, starchy variety of rice primarily grown in the Po Valley of Italy. It's best known for its use in making risotto, a creamy, savoury Italian dish. Arborio rice has several unique properties that make it ideal for this purpose, and it is prized for its ability to absorb liquids while releasing starch, creating the creamy texture that is the hallmark of a well-made risotto.

Shape and Size:

Arborio rice grains are short to medium in length and plump, with a white, opaque appearance.

The grains are slightly round and have a firm, chewy texture when cooked, which helps them hold their shape during the cooking process.

Texture:

When cooked, Arborio rice becomes creamy on the outside but remains firm and al dente on the inside. This contrast between the outer creaminess and the firm texture inside is a key feature of risotto made with Arborio rice.

Aroma:

Arborio rice is neutral in flavour, allowing the flavours of the dish (such as broths, wine, herbs, or cheese) to shine through. Its aroma is mild compared to other rice varieties.

Nutritional Value

• Calories and Carbohydrates: Arborio rice is primarily composed of carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy.
• Low in Fat: It contains very little fat, making it a relatively low-fat option.
• Low in Fibre: Arborio rice has less fibre compared to whole-grain varieties like brown rice, but it is still rich in vitamins and minerals, such as thiamine, iron, and B vitamins.
• Gluten-Free: Like other rice varieties, Arborio rice is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

Cooking Arborio Rice

The key to cooking Arborio rice is the risotto method, where the rice is cooked by gradually adding warm broth or liquid while stirring continuously. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid slowly and release its starch, creating its characteristic creamy texture.

Culinary Uses

Risotto: The most common use for Arborio rice is in risotto, a creamy Italian dish made by cooking the rice slowly in broth while stirring constantly. This technique allows the rice to release its starch and become creamy.

Rice Pudding: Arborio rice is also used to make rice pudding because of its ability to absorb liquid and become creamy. It's ideal for sweet versions of rice pudding, especially when cooked with milk and sugar.

Arancini: Leftover risotto made with Arborio rice is often used to make arancini, which are deep-fried rice balls stuffed with cheese, meat, or other fillings.

Soups and Stews: Arborio rice can be added to soups and stews to provide texture and absorb the flavours of the broth, though this is less common than its use in risotto.

Cooking Tips

• Stirring: Stir the rice constantly as you add the broth. This constant stirring encourages the release of starch, contributing to the creamy texture.
• Add Liquid Slowly: Adding liquid gradually is crucial. If too much liquid is added all at once, the rice may not cook properly and will not release enough starch.
• Test for Doneness: Risotto is done when the rice is al dente, meaning it should still have a slight firmness to the bite but be surrounded by a creamy sauce.

Arborio rice is a versatile, starchy rice that excels in dishes where its creamy texture is a key element, particularly risotto. With its ability to absorb flavours and release starch to create a creamy consistency, it's a staple in Italian cuisine and can be used in a variety of savoury and sweet dishes.