Water-cooked risotto with burrata, citron and mint
Published on 29 April 2026
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A very simple risotto. Andrea, a dear friend, gave me a splendid citron grown in his beautiful lemon garden at "FONDO CROCIFISSO" in Gargnano on Lake Garda. I decided to make this simple but wonderfully fragrant risotto: truly delicious and extremely easy. The original calls it very light and suggests using readily available lactose-free burrata for those intolerant to lactose.
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Ingredients
INGREDIENTS FOR 4 PEOPLE
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Method
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I prepare a saucepan with about 2 litres of water and bring it to the boil. I put the rice in a dry pan and toast it for a few minutes; no sautéed base is needed.

I place the back of my hand over the rice to check that it is hot.

I add the boiling water and cook the rice, adding a little salt. I taste it at the end to check the seasoning.

I remove the rice from the heat while still al dente and moist, and add a tablespoon of vinegar for the right acidity.

I add very cold butter in small pieces; the temperature contrast makes it creamier.

I add the Parmesan and stir, moving the pan backwards and forwards. It should be creamy and flow in waves.

I spoon the rice onto plates, add torn burrata, a few mint leaves, a generous grating of citron zest and a grind of pepper.

I serve straight away: I assure you it is delicious.

A recipe from "Cucina Italiana". This cooking method by chef Davide Oldani involves dry-toasting without fat, a sautéed base or white wine, gradually adding only water instead of stock. The original describes it as making the dish easier to digest.
Original source: https://incucinaconlilly.com/2026/04/29/risotto-allacqua-con-burrata-cedro-e-menta/
