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At the heart of any risotto is the rice, and for this recipe, we use Arborio rice. This short-grain rice is known for its high starch content, which is essential for achieving the creamy texture characteristic of risotto. When cooked, Arborio rice absorbs the broth while releasing its starch, resulting in a rich and velvety consistency. Unlike other rice varieties, Arborio retains a slight al dente bite, which adds to the overall mouthfeel of the dish. Its ability to absorb flavors makes it the ideal choice for this Japanese-inspired risotto, allowing the umami elements to shine through.

Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon, a delightful fusion that marries creamy Italian risotto with the umami of Japanese ingredients. Learn how to elevate your culinary skills by incorporating dashi broth, miso paste, and fresh vegetables into perfectly cooked Arborio rice. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests. Get ready to savor a unique and satisfying meal that celebrates both cultures! #Risotto #SearedSalmon #JapaneseCuisine #CulinaryFusion #Foodie #ComfortFood #HealthyEating

Ingredients
  

1 cup Arborio rice

4 cups dashi broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon mirin

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 green onions, finely chopped

1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced

1 small carrot, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons miso paste (white or yellow)

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

2 salmon fillets (5-6 ounces each)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Sesame seeds, for garnish

Fresh cilantro or shiso leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Broth: In a medium saucepan, bring the dashi broth to a gentle simmer. Keep it warm over low heat for later use.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, diced carrot, and sliced shiitake mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

      Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir the rice for about 2-3 minutes until it's well coated with the oil and lightly toasted.

        Incorporate the Broth: Pour in 1 cup of the warm dashi broth, soy sauce, and mirin. Stir regularly until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Continue adding the broth, one cup at a time, allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. This process should take about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente.

          Add Miso: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the miso paste and half of the chopped green onions. Mix well until the miso is fully dissolved and incorporated.

            Seared Salmon: While the risotto is cooking, heat a separate non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper. Place the salmon skin-side down in the hot skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the fish is cooked halfway through. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness.

              Serve: Spoon the creamy risotto onto plates, top each serving with a seared salmon fillet, and sprinkle with the remaining green onions and sesame seeds. Garnish with fresh cilantro or shiso leaves if desired.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 2