Sweet Corn Creamy Risotto (Print Version)

Creamy Arborio rice with sweet corn, thyme, and Parmesan—rich, satisfying, and full of summer flavor.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
02 - 3 cups fresh corn kernels or thawed frozen corn kernels
03 - 6 to 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

→ Aromatics and Fats

04 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Flavorings and Finish

08 - 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
09 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or other fresh herbs
11 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)

# Steps:

01 - If using fresh corn, blend half the kernels into a smooth puree and set aside. Leave the remaining kernels whole.
02 - Transfer the vegetable broth to a saucepan and keep it at a gentle simmer throughout the cooking process.
03 - In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt 2 tablespoons butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until translucent and softened.
04 - Stir in the minced garlic and chopped thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Add the Arborio rice to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes until the grains are coated and the edges appear translucent.
06 - Pour in the dry white wine, if using, and allow it to simmer until mostly absorbed by the rice.
07 - Add hot vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously and letting the liquid absorb before adding each subsequent addition.
08 - After the risotto has cooked for 10 to 15 minutes, stir in the corn puree to combine with the rice.
09 - Continue adding broth and stirring until the rice is al dente, about 20 to 25 minutes total. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the remaining whole corn kernels.
10 - Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream if desired. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
11 - Dish risotto immediately and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs as desired.

# Notes:

01 - Continuously stirring the risotto yields a creamy texture from released starches.