Lowcountry Risotto

Some recipes are born in Italy. Others are born in the Lowcountry. This one belongs to both. Creamy Carolina Gold rice meets sweet summer corn, succulent shrimp, and a little Italian inspiration for a dish that feels elegant enough for company but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. This one comes together quickly and tastes as good as traditional risotto, actually I think this is even better!

You will need:

4 tbsp butter

1 tbsp olive oil

1 large shallot, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1½ cups Carolina Gold rice

4 cups seafood or chicken stock, warmed

1/3 cup white wine

1 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)

½ tsp black pepper

2 cups fresh sweet corn kernels

½ cup mascarpone

¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic for another 30 seconds. Add the Carolina Gold rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until every grain is coated and slightly translucent around the edges. Pour in all of the warm stock. Season with salt and pepper and bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce to a low simmer, cover, and cook for about 18-20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the rice is almost tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir in the corn, mascarpone, and the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Continue cooking uncovered for another 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is perfectly tender and the mixture becomes creamy.

Remove from the heat. Fold in the Parmesan until melted and silky.

Gently stir in the cooked shrimp just until warmed through.

Finish with fresh parsley and serve

Bella's Tip

Traditional risotto requires adding broth one ladle at a time while stirring constantly. This version lets Carolina Gold rice do the hard work. Its naturally high starch content creates the same luxurious texture with far less fuss, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or elegant entertaining.