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If you are searching for a dish that feels like a warm, indulgent hug on a plate, this Creamy Prawn Risotto Recipe is exactly what you need. Its magical blend of tender, juicy prawns swimming in a lusciously creamy risotto base delivers an explosion of flavors and textures that transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become your new go-to comfort food that’s both elegant and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy Prawn Risotto Recipe plays a crucial role, combining simplicity and quality to build layers of flavor, silkiness, and that perfect hint of freshness. From the luscious butter to the vibrant peas, every component enhances the dish’s taste, texture, and vivid appearance.
- Olive oil: Adds a light, fruity richness and helps cook prawns perfectly without sticking.
- Prawns/shrimp (400–500g): The star protein, providing a sweet, succulent seafood flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that balances and brightens every bite.
- Butter (1 1/2 tbsp + extra 1–2 tbsp): Creates that signature creamy texture and adds buttery depth.
- Onion (½, finely chopped): Gives subtle sweetness and aromatic background.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Brings warmth and savory complexity.
- Dry white wine (1/3 cup): Lends brightness and deglazes the pan to capture prawn flavor (water can be used as a substitute).
- Arborio rice (1 ½ cups): The perfect risotto rice with a creamy starch that cooks to tender yet slightly chewy.
- Chicken broth (3 cups, low sodium, room temperature): A savory liquid foundation that steeps the rice with rich flavor.
- Milk (1 cup, room temperature, full or low fat): Adds creaminess without overpowering the delicate seafood taste.
- Frozen peas (1 cup, thawed): Pops of fresh green color and a sweet crunch.
- Grated parmesan (1/3 cup + extra for garnish): Cheese that melts into the risotto, adding umami depth and that irresistible cheesy finish.
- Parsley (finely chopped, optional): A fresh herbal note to brighten the dish just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Prawn Risotto Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Prawns
Start by heating olive oil in a heavy-based pot on medium-high heat. Lay half of the prawns in a single layer, seasoning them with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Cook them for just over a minute on one side and then flip for another minute on the other side. This quick sear locks in juiciness and flavor. Remove and keep warm, then repeat with the remaining prawns. This two-step searing builds a beautifully caramelized base that adds a subtle depth to your risotto.
Step 2: Build Flavor with Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium and melt butter in the same pot. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, allowing them to soften and release their aromas without browning. This stage forms a gentle, savory foundation that enhances the overall richness.
Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the dry white wine and give the pot a good stir. This will lift all the delicious browned bits left by the prawns off the bottom of the pan, infusing the liquid with their concentrated flavor. Simmer for about two minutes until the sharp alcohol scent dissipates, leaving behind only the subtle fruity tang.
Step 4: Toast the Arborio Rice
Add the Arborio rice and stir continuously for about 30 seconds. Toasting the rice in the buttery mixture helps the grains start releasing starch, which is essential for that creamy risotto texture. The rice should look translucent on the edges while remaining opaque in the center.
Step 5: Begin Adding Broth
Pour in roughly two-thirds of your chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and adjust the heat so it bubbles softly. This slow simmer is key to cooking the rice evenly and coaxing out its creamy starchiness.
Step 6: Simmer and Absorb
Let the risotto simmer for about 5 minutes, then stir, and continue simmering for another 2 minutes until most broth has been absorbed and you can see rice grains peeking through the surface. This gradual absorption strengthens the flavor and gives the risotto its unique texture.
Step 7: Add Remaining Broth and Milk
Introduce the rest of the broth along with the milk, stirring gently to combine. Simmer for a further 3 minutes, then stir and simmer an additional 2 minutes. This combination of milk and broth softens the texture further, ensuring the final risotto is indulgently creamy but not heavy.
Step 8: Finish with Peas and Parmesan
When the risotto is still slightly undercooked and soupy, fold in thawed peas and grated parmesan cheese. These ingredients brighten the dish and add layers of flavor and texture that keep each bite interesting and balanced.
Step 9: Season and Add the Extra Butter
Give the risotto a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Then add the extra butter and stir vigorously for about 10 seconds – this crucial step is what transforms the risotto into a luxuriously creamy masterpiece that feels like velvet on your tongue.
Step 10: Fold in the Prawns and Serve
Finally, gently stir the reserved prawns back into the risotto, including any juices collected. Remove the pot from the heat; your risotto should have a porridge-like consistency that ooze invites digging in, not a sticky clump. Spoon into bowls and garnish with additional parmesan and parsley for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Serve Creamy Prawn Risotto Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and a handful of finely chopped parsley brighten the plate with flavor and color, adding that irresistible cheesy aroma and fresh herbal kiss. Lemon zest or a drizzle of good olive oil can also elevate the presentation and taste beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since this risotto is rich and filling, pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides works best – think a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to complement the seafood without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, serve individual portions in shallow bowls and garnish with edible flowers or a light sprinkle of chili flakes for a pop of color and gentle bite. You could also present this risotto stuffed inside large, roasted bell peppers or alongside garlic butter sautéed mushrooms for extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Prawn Risotto Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, although risotto is best enjoyed fresh for optimal creaminess and texture.
Freezing
Freezing risotto is not generally recommended as it can alter the texture of the rice and creaminess. However, if you must freeze, cool the risotto completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water, broth, or milk to loosen the rice and restore creaminess. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and ensure even heating. Avoid microwaving without adding liquid, as risotto can dry out quickly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Yes, frozen prawns work well, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. This prevents extra moisture from diluting the flavor and ensures a tasty sear.
Is Arborio rice necessary for risotto?
Arborio rice is ideal because of its high starch content that creates that signature creamy risotto texture. Using other types of rice may result in a less creamy dish.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can make a vegetarian version by omitting prawns and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and perhaps adding mushrooms or grilled vegetables to replace the seafood element.
How do I know when the risotto is done?
The rice should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente), and the mixture should be creamy and a bit loose, not dry or sticky. Following the liquid absorption steps will help you achieve this perfect balance.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, dry white grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar or simply water can substitute. The key is to add acidity and depth without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Prawn Risotto Recipe is truly a treasure when you want to impress yourself or guests with a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. Easy to make but impossibly satisfying, it brings the richness of the sea to your table wrapped in the silkiest, creamiest risotto you can imagine. Dive in and enjoy every spoonful — once you make it, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorites!
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