Whats the difference between risotto rice and other rice? I only have normal rice and wanted to make a risotto but notice recipe calls for risotto rice. Is this just a ploy to make us buy lots of different types of rice or will something go wrong with my risotto if I try and use regular short grain rice?

Thanks

Ogg

Risotto rice is a bit creamier but you can use regular short grain rice if you want to.

Risotto rice.
Short grain rice.

You should technically use Arborio rice in a risotto, which is a short grain, almost rounded grain type of very glutinous rice.

It cooks down softer and creamier than normal rice.

Having said that, I have made risotto with normal rice too - if you're not particularly out to impress and it's just something for supper, then it's fine!

Thanks guys, both really helpful.

It is just for normal family supper so will just use the normal rice on this occassion.

Ive used both. Risotto rice is better as it absorbs the stock quicker

It is not a risotto with out the correct rice or if not cooked with stock.

Why don't you make a pialu with the regular rice, it will turn out much nicer than trying to make a risotto with it.

There are others apart from Arborio, Carnaroli (probably the best) and one beginning with 'v' I can never remember.

Vialone Nano? Can absorb twice its own weight in water/stock.

I've used ordinary rice - even long grain on occasions. Not quite the same but works out okay.

Vialone is the name you're looking for..........)))) Actually, that's the best rice for risotto - it's the most resiliant for cooking for long times and it keeps its structure.
Basically, all three varieties are ok for risotto. Arborio is the most common one, Carnaroli is considered the top one, and Vialone as said is best if you think you may take a long time between the cooking and the eating.

Have a look at this, it's the site of the main Italian producer:

http://www.risogallo.it/risogallo/ri...omain=2&lang=2

Yep thanks both of you Vialone Nano was the other one I was thinking of.

I've tried all three but have best results with Carnaroli but I might try Vialone again if I can find it locally.