ChefSteps is a team of chefs, writers, and food lovers who develop recipes, techniques, and guides to help people cook better at home.

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Soothing and comforting, simple on its own but ready to be dressed up at a moment’s notice, risotto can be the star of any dinner or play a sturdy supporting role. And topped with a few herbs, it’s always a bright spot on a cold, dreary day.The key to a well-made risotto is the rice itself—you wouldn’t make a sandwich with subpar bread, right? To do this dish justice, we opt for arborio rice, but you can use another starchy medium or short-grained variety. Each type of rice has its own characteristics; we love arborio’s creaminess and its toothsome bite when cooked al dente. To get rich flavor and a smooth consistency, we use a healthy pour of white wine and plenty of parmesan cheese, but make a few quick substitutions, and you can serve this up to your vegan friends too. Fancy it up with earthy, browned mushrooms and eat it on its own, or serve it under <a href="/activities/braised-and-glazed-lamb-shank">the succulent braised meat of your dreams</a>.Whether it’s the star of the show or the trusty sidekick to a hunk of slow-cooked meat, getting the most out of your risotto is all about giving it the time and energy it needs to truly shine. This means buying the right rice, using decent wine, tending gently and lovingly to the mixture while it simmers, and eating up every last bite when it’s done. Trust us. You’ll be glad you did.