This vegan risotto combines earthy mushrooms with sweet green peas, creating a creamy and satisfying plant-based dish. The Arborio rice absorbs all the flavors beautifully, resulting in a luscious, comforting texture that rivals any traditional risotto. Nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy flavor, making it a perfect alternative for dairy-free diets.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant vegan meal for guests, this risotto is not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and enjoy a wholesome, nourishing meal that’s entirely plant-based, gluten-free, and deeply satisfying.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
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1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
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4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
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1 cup mushrooms, sliced
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1 cup green peas
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1/4 cup nutritional yeast
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
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Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
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Add white wine, if using, and cook until absorbed.
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Gradually add warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously, allowing each addition to absorb before adding the next.
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About halfway through cooking, stir in mushrooms and continue adding broth until rice is creamy and tender.
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Add green peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
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Remove from heat and stir in nutritional yeast, season with salt and pepper.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction
Vegan Mushroom Pea Risotto is a beautifully creamy, plant-based twist on the traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. With its origins in northern Italy, risotto is celebrated for its rich texture and versatility, making it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike. The vegan version cleverly substitutes dairy-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as nutritional yeast, which imparts a subtle cheesy flavor while keeping the dish entirely vegan. This combination of earthy mushrooms, sweet peas, and perfectly cooked Arborio rice creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant, suitable for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Origins and History of Risotto
Risotto originated in northern Italy, particularly in the Lombardy and Piedmont regions. The dish relies on the unique starch content of Arborio rice, which creates the signature creamy texture when slowly cooked with broth. Traditionally, risotto includes butter, Parmesan cheese, and sometimes cream, but the vegan version maintains all of the flavor without using any animal products. Incorporating mushrooms and peas adds depth and a fresh, vibrant note to the dish, keeping it rooted in Italian culinary tradition while adapting it for modern dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Risotto
This risotto is an ideal example of comfort food that doesn’t compromise on health or flavor. The earthy, umami-rich mushrooms pair perfectly with the tender, sweet peas, creating a balance of textures and flavors. Nutritional yeast adds a creamy, cheesy undertone, making it satisfyingly rich without using dairy. The dish is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply exploring plant-based meals, this risotto is a dish that will impress and delight.
Health Benefits
Mushrooms are low in calories but high in important nutrients, including B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants, which support immune function and overall wellness. Green peas provide fiber, protein, and a variety of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. Combined with the slow-cooked Arborio rice, this dish is not only filling but also supports digestive health and sustained energy levels. By using plant-based ingredients instead of dairy, you reduce saturated fat intake while still enjoying a creamy, indulgent texture.
Serving Suggestions
Vegan Mushroom Pea Risotto is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the risotto, adding freshness and acidity. Roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini enhance the earthy flavors of the dish. For an added touch of indulgence, drizzle a small amount of truffle oil or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts over the top before serving. This risotto also works well as a side dish alongside a simple protein, like pan-seared tofu or tempeh, for a complete plant-based meal.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Risotto
Achieving the perfect creamy texture requires patience and attention. Gradually adding warm vegetable broth to the rice and stirring frequently allows the starch to release, resulting in a velvety consistency. Avoid rushing this process; the slow cooking ensures that each grain of rice is perfectly tender. Fresh, high-quality mushrooms will enhance the depth of flavor, while frozen peas can be added towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and texture. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme elevates the flavors and brings harmony to the dish.
Variations and Customizations
Vegan Mushroom Pea Risotto is highly adaptable. Swap peas for asparagus tips, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for a seasonal variation. Different mushroom varieties, such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster, can be used to add unique flavor profiles. For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or unsweetened almond cream at the end. You can also enhance the flavor with a hint of white wine, vegetable stock infused with herbs, or a touch of lemon zest for brightness. This flexibility allows home cooks to personalize the risotto while keeping it plant-based and wholesome.
Why It’s a Great Dish for Entertaining
Despite being simple to make, this vegan risotto looks impressive on the plate and is perfect for entertaining. Its creamy texture and vibrant colors make it visually appealing, while the rich flavors ensure that guests feel satisfied and delighted. Pair with a crisp vegan white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to elevate the dining experience. The dish can be served in individual bowls or plated elegantly for a more formal presentation.
Conclusion
Vegan Mushroom Pea Risotto is a comforting, elegant, and versatile dish that showcases the beauty of plant-based cooking. With its creamy texture, earthy mushrooms, sweet peas, and cheesy undertones from nutritional yeast, it satisfies both flavor and nutritional needs. Whether you are cooking for a cozy weeknight meal, entertaining guests, or exploring vegan cuisine, this risotto is a perfect choice. Its adaptability, health benefits, and ease of preparation make it a staple recipe that deserves a place in every home cook’s repertoire. By focusing on quality ingredients and careful preparation, you can create a dish that is both nourishing and indulgent, proving that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying as their traditional counterparts.