A good basic recipe for making creamy risotto. Properly cooked risotto requires constant attention and stirring...it is a dish made with much care and patience.

Basic Risotto

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 small Spanish onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 cups arborio rice
1 cup white wine
8 cups any flavored broth or hot water
Salt and freshly ground pepper

1. Heat the oil in medium saucepan, add onion and garlic, and cook until softened. Stir in the rice until nicely coated.
2. Stir in the wine, and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the wine has nearly evaporated.
3. Add 2 cups of the broth or water, and continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the liquid is nearly absorbed, stir in another 2 cups of broth or water and repeat the cooking process until all the broth or water has been added and rice is tender, about 30 minutes.
4. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Serves 6 to 8.