Popular Dishes You've Been Making Wrong Your Whole Life

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Risotto

Proper cooking methods for risotto are a wide subject of debate. But if you want to succeed every time, these are the ground rules to follow. Once you've brought your rice to a boil (with that first ladleful of wine or broth), turn the heat down to medium. It should never be on high, otherwise your rice won't cook evenly, and it won't have time to absorb the liquid. Always use stock that's kept at a low simmer. Stir enough to get the rice nice and starchy and to help it evenly absorb the liquid, but don't overdo it. And one final misconception about risotto is that it's supposed to be soft and mushy. Not so! The rice should be cooked to al dente, with just enough bite. And don't add cream or cheese 'til the end.