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Butternut squash has always been such a wonderful vegetable to me.
Golden, sweet, with a depth of flavour that speaks directly to the soul of autumn.
One of my favourite soups is butternut squash soup but I want to change this into something else that has the same flavours.
This Butternut Squash Risotto is my take on a fall risotto recipe.
The Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Grocery List
Produce
- [ ] 1 medium butternut squash
- [ ] 1 medium onion
- [ ] 2 cloves garlic
- [ ] Fresh sage
- [ ] Lemon (optional, for serving)
Pantry & Dairy
- [ ] Olive oil
- [ ] Salt
- [ ] Black pepper
- [ ] Arborio rice
- [ ] Chicken or vegetable broth
- [ ] Unsalted butter
- [ ] Dry white wine
- [ ] Parmesan cheese
- [ ] Ground nutmeg
The Science of Perfect Risotto
Risotto is not just a dish—it’s a technique. Unlike regular rice, Arborio rice is high in amylopectin, a starch that creates that signature creamy texture. The constant stirring releases these starches, transforming simple rice into a luxurious canvas.
Roasting: The Flavor Transformation
Roasting the butternut squash isn’t just a cooking step—it’s a flavour development process. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating those deep, nutty notes that elevate the entire dish. Those slightly charred edges? They’re packed with complex flavour compounds that tell the story of autumn.
Technique Breakdown
Risotto Mastery Tips
- Use warm broth to maintain consistent cooking temperature
- Stir constantly to release rice starches
- Add broth gradually—patience is key
- The final texture should be creamy, not stiff
Nutritional Insights
Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse:
- Rich in vitamin A
- High in fibre
- Contains antioxidants
- Low in calories
- Provides complex carbohydrates
The Arborio rice and Parmesan cheese add protein and calcium, making this more than just a side dish—it’s a balanced meal.
Flavor Variations
Love the base recipe? Try these twists:
- Add crispy pancetta for a salty crunch
- Incorporate roasted pine nuts
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
The Ritual of Cooking
There’s something meditative about making risotto. Each ladleful of broth, each careful stir, is an act of culinary mindfulness. It’s a reminder that good food takes time, that the best flavors cannot be rushed.
Wine Pairing
The white wine in this recipe isn’t just for cooking. A crisp Pinot Grigio or an unoaked Chardonnay complements the creamy, sweet notes of the dish perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Butternut Squash Risotto is more than a recipe. It’s a celebration of autumn, of patience, of the magic that happens when simple ingredients are treated with respect and care.
Pro tip: The leftover risotto makes an incredible next-day lunch. Just add a little broth when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
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