As October whispers its way into our kitchens, the rich hues of autumn inspire a playful culinary adventure. Enter my Creamy Black Rice Risotto with Roasted Butternut Squash—a dish that marries the nutty essence of black rice with the sweet, velvety goodness of warm, caramelized squash. This gluten-free, vegetarian risotto not only celebrates the season’s colors but also packs a nutritional punch, ensuring it’s as healthy as it is heartwarming. With just the right amount of creaminess and an opportunity to impress dinner guests, this recipe is all about elevating cozy nights spent in the kitchen. Are you ready to make an unforgettable fall dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat?

Why will you fall in love with this dish?

Alluring Colors: The striking contrast of black rice and golden butternut squash creates a visually stunning plate that captures the essence of Halloween.

Rich, Nutty Flavor: Experience the unique taste of black rice combined with the sweet, creamy notes of roasted squash for a delicious twist on traditional risotto.

Health-Conscious Delight: Gluten-free and packed with fiber and antioxidants, this dish ensures you can indulge guilt-free!

Simple Yet Impressive: Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this risotto is straightforward to prepare yet guarantees rave reviews every time.

Versatile Ingredient Options: Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or proteins, tailoring the dish to your preferences, just like our Nutty Vanilla Cake or Cucumber Carrot Salad.

Elevate your autumn dining experience with this delightful risotto that’s bound to become a favorite!

Black Rice Risotto Ingredients

• This section breaks down everything you need for crafting the perfect Black Rice Risotto with Butternut Squash!

For the Butternut Squash

Diced Butternut Squash – The secret to sweetness and creaminess; feel free to substitute with sweet potatoes or pumpkin for a different flavor.
Olive Oil – Essential for roasting and adding flavor; avocado oil can be used for a twist.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Enhances the dish beautifully; you can switch to sea salt or white pepper if preferred.
Poultry Seasoning – Adds wonderful depth to the squash and risotto; Italian seasoning mix works well as a substitute.

For the Risotto

Butter – Imparts richness and flavor; opt for vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
Yellow Onion – Provides the base flavor with a touch of sweetness; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Garlic (or Shallot) – Infuses aromatic qualities; if fresh is unavailable, garlic powder is a good substitute.
Dry White Wine – Brings acidity and depth; swap with vegetable broth or apple cider for a non-alcoholic version.
Balsamic Vinegar – Enhances flavor with a hint of sweetness; red wine vinegar is a suitable alternative.
Black Rice – The star of the show, providing a nutty taste and unique texture; forbidden rice is a fantastic substitute, or try mixing with arborio for creaminess.
Low Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Delivers the necessary liquid and flavor during cooking; homemade stock enhances the depth even more.
Rice Flour – Works wonders in making the risotto creamy; cornstarch can be used as a thickener instead.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds savoriness and a creamy finish; nutritional yeast is perfect for a vegan option.
Sour Cream (optional) – Offers a tangy note; Greek yogurt or simply omitting it is also an option.
Pickled Jalapeños (optional) – A spicy garnish for those who enjoy a kick; sliced olives can keep it milder if preferred.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to crafting a delightful Black Rice Risotto with Butternut Squash that will impress any guest!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Black Rice Risotto with Butternut Squash

Step 1: Prepare Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and poultry seasoning until well-coated. Spread the squash evenly on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 30 minutes, or until it’s golden and fork-tender, ensuring a sweet caramelized flavor.

Step 2: Make Risotto Base
In a large sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, then cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your Black Rice Risotto, filling your kitchen with enticing aromas.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids
Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting the wine reduce until it’s nearly evaporated, which will intensify the flavors and add depth to your risotto. Keep the heat at medium to maintain a gentle cooking pace.

Step 4: Cook the Black Rice
Stir in 1 cup of black rice, toasting it for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor. Gradually add 4 cups of heated low sodium chicken or vegetable broth, one half-cup at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is al dente and creamy.

Step 5: Thicken Risotto
To achieve the perfect creamy texture, combine 2 tablespoons of rice flour with 2-3 tablespoons of water or cold broth in a small bowl and stir until smooth. Once most of the broth is absorbed, mix this slurry into your risotto and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. The result should be a luscious, velvety Black Rice Risotto.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Remove the risotto from heat and stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and an extra tablespoon of butter for richness. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Let the risotto sit, covered, for 5 minutes to enhance its creaminess, making every serving irresistibly smooth.

Step 7: Serve
To plate, spoon generous amounts of the Black Rice Risotto onto warm plates. Top with the beautifully roasted butternut squash and sprinkle with extra Parmesan for added flavor. For a fun touch, consider garnishing with pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick, capturing the festive autumn spirit!

How to Store and Freeze Black Rice Risotto

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on low heat, adding additional broth as needed to maintain texture.

Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the butternut squash in advance and store it separately, making your black rice risotto a breeze to finish when you’re ready.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Black Rice Risotto with Roasted Butternut Squash is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Additionally, prepare the base of the risotto (onions, garlic, broth mix) up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors merge beautifully. To maintain quality, slightly undercook the risotto when prepping ahead; then, reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine the prepped ingredients and finish by stirring in butter and Parmesan for that rich, comforting flavor.

Black Rice Risotto Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions, inviting personal touches to your risotto adventure!

Seasonal Veggies: Swap in sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for added flavor and a pop of color.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to transform your dish into a hearty main course.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika for an exciting flavor dimension.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of butter and cheese for a luscious vegan version that’s still rich and satisfying.
Different Grains: Mix in quinoa or farro with black rice for a unique texture and superfood benefits.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for extra crunch and flavor contrast.
Roasted Garlic: Incorporate roasted garlic for a deeper, sweeter flavor that pairs beautifully with the butternut squash.
Heat Level: Toss in a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, balancing the sweetness of the squash.

Feel inspired to mix and match these ideas—you might just create a new family favorite! Speaking of favorites, why not try pairing this with a refreshing Cucumber Carrot Salad for a complete meal? Or keep it warm and comforting with a side of Chicken Drumsticks with Veggies.

What to Serve with Black Rice Risotto with Butternut Squash

To complement the hearty richness of this risotto, consider these delicious pairings that enhance every bite.

Fresh Arugula Salad: A bright and peppery salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy risotto. Its crispness elevates the dining experience.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic provide a comforting, textural accompaniment, making each bite not only filling but also delightful.
Sautéed Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in olive oil and sprinkled with flaked almonds offer a crunchy element and a pop of color, balancing the dish beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized morsels bring a lovely earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the butternut squash, creating a warm and cozy autumn vibe.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned and roasted potato wedges add a satisfying crunch and heartiness, perfect for those who love a heartier meal alongside their risotto.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the creamy texture of the risotto and elevates the overall flavors of the dish.
Spiced Pumpkin Muffins: For a sweet touch, serve pumpkin muffins with warm spices that echo the flavors of the dish while delighting your guests with a festive dessert option.
Apple Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider, warm or cold, brings a seasonal twist and accentuates the sweet notes of the butternut squash, making this meal unforgettable.

Expert Tips for Black Rice Risotto

Creaminess Tip: Ensure creaminess by adding a mix of rice flour and liquid towards the end. This gives the black rice risotto a velvety texture.
Gentle Stirring: Stir gently; over-stirring can break the rice and affect texture. This helps to retain the starch needed for a creamy risotto.
Resting Time: Let your risotto sit off the heat for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances creaminess.
Avoid Overcooking: Cook the rice until al dente—too long can lead to mushy risotto. Remember, black rice takes longer to cook than traditional varieties.
Taste Test: Always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning, especially with salt and pepper, to elevate your black rice risotto to perfection.
Substitution Savvy: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on availability, but keep in mind the flavor balance to maintain the dish’s essence.

Black Rice Risotto with Butternut Squash Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, look for firm, smooth skin with a deep beige color. Avoid any squash with dark spots or soft areas, which may indicate spoilage. A good squash should feel heavy for its size, signifying ripeness and sweetness.

What’s the best way to store leftover Black Rice Risotto?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent it from drying out when reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Can I freeze Black Rice Risotto?
Yes! To freeze your risotto, let it cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove with additional broth to maintain the creamy texture.

What should I do if my risotto isn’t creamy enough?
Very! If your Black Rice Risotto lacks creaminess, you can mix 2 tablespoons of rice flour with a few tablespoons of cold water or broth to create a slurry. Stir this into the risotto during the last few minutes of cooking to help thicken it and achieve that velvety texture. Remember to let it rest for about 5 minutes off the heat before serving to enhance creaminess.

Is this risotto safe for my gluten-sensitive friends?
Absolutely! This Black Rice Risotto with Butternut Squash is gluten-free, ensuring it’s a safe and delightful choice for those with gluten sensitivity. Just make sure that any broth or substitutes you use, like soy sauce or optional toppings, are also gluten-free.

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Definitely! While black rice provides unique flavor and texture, you can mix things up by swapping in forbidden rice, or even a combination of arborio rice for added creaminess. Each grain will bring something special, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences!