The rich, savory scent of sautéed mushrooms fills the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite Italian bistro. But instead of ordering off the menu, I’ve been making this creamy miso mushroom risotto right in my Instant Pot, and it’s a game changer. Picture this: tender mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and a luxurious texture, all completely plant-based.

After a long week, nothing feels more comforting than a comforting bowl of risotto, especially when it’s as easy to prepare as this one is! With the substantial umami flavor from the miso and the creamy texture from Carnaroli rice, I’ve discovered the perfect dish that satisfies my cravings without sacrificing flavor. Whether cooking for a cozy dinner at home or impressing friends with restaurant-quality fare, this risotto is bound to become your new go-to recipe. Get ready to delight your senses and elevate your weeknight meals!

Why is Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto a Must-Try?

Comforting, Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Experience rich umami flavor with the unique miso butter.
Effortless Preparation: The Instant Pot makes this creamy risotto easy and mess-free, freeing up your time.
Plant-Based Indulgence: Completely vegan yet decadently satisfying, perfect for any dietary preference.
Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with a crisp salad or roasted veggies to create a full meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, without the fuss!
Get ready to enjoy a delightful meal that’s both comforting and nourishing!

Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto Ingredients

• Get ready to make this delicious risotto!

For the Risotto

Carnaroli Rice – A special rice variety that creates the desired creamy texture by releasing starch; Arborio is a suitable substitute.
Mixed Mushrooms (20 oz) – Choose a variety like cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms for a rich umami flavor.
Vegan Butter (4 tbsp) – This adds a luxurious richness; you can substitute with regular butter if vegan isn’t a concern.
Miso Paste (2 tbsp) – Provides deep umami, elevating the flavor of the dish; adjust to your taste preference.
Fresh Thyme (2 cups) – Infuses a wonderful aroma; consider using rosemary or sage for a different herbal note.
Garlic (4 cloves) – Minced for maximum flavor infusion, essential in achieving that comforting taste.
Vegetable Broth (5 cups) – This is the cooking liquid for the risotto; swapping half for white wine adds a lovely acidity.
White Wine (2/3 cup) – Enhances flavor complexity; extra vegetable broth works if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.
Onion (1, diced) – Adds to the flavor base; can be left out for a lighter dish.
Salt & Pepper to taste – Essential seasonings; adjust according to preference for the perfect finish.

Optional Garnish

Chopped Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of freshness that brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Vegan Parmesan (to taste) – Add for a cheesy finish that complements the richness of the risotto.

Dive into this delightful Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto and savor all the comforting flavors it has to offer!

How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto

Sauté Aromatics: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Melt the vegan butter, then add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook Mushrooms: Add the mixed mushrooms and fresh thyme to the pot, stirring frequently. Sauté until the mushrooms are soft, browned, and their lovely aroma fills your kitchen, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Toast the Rice: Stir in the Carnaroli rice and continue sautéing for an additional 1-2 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent. This step enhances the risotto’s creaminess.
Deglaze: Pour in the white wine (or additional broth), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits. Stir until the wine is mostly absorbed.
Pressure Cook: Add the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 6 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release.
Finishing Touches: Open the lid and stir in the miso paste until well combined, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Allow the risotto to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto

Proper Sautéing: Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until fragrant; this builds the dish’s flavor base and prevents bitterness.
Mushroom Variety: Using mixed mushrooms enhances the umami flavor, so try a combination like shiitake, cremini, and button mushrooms.
Deglazing is Key: Don’t skip deglazing with wine or broth; it helps lift flavorful bits from the pot, adding depth to your risotto.
Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious with the pressure cooking time; six minutes is usually perfect for achieving al dente, creamy rice.
Utilize Warm Broth: Always add warm vegetable broth to your Instant Pot; cold broth can lower the cooking temperature and affect timing.
Finish with Miso: Stir in the miso paste after pressure cooking for the best flavor; it ensures a deep, umami richness without losing nutrition.

Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto Variations

Feel free to get creative with your risotto and make it uniquely yours while keeping that delightful, creamy essence!

Nut-Free: Replace vegan butter with olive oil to keep it light and delicious while catering to nut allergies.
Herb Swap: Try using sage or rosemary instead of thyme for a fragrant twist that brings warmth to the dish.
Cheesy Flavor: Incorporate nutritional yeast instead of miso for a cheesy flavor without fermentation; it’s a quick and easy shift!
Creamy Addition: Stir in some coconut cream at the end for an extra layer of creaminess and a hint of tropical sweetness.
Broccoli Boost: Add fresh or frozen broccoli florets to the mix; they steam beautifully in the pot and add vibrant color and nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage for a warm, inviting heat that elevates the flavor profile.
Pesto Flavor: Swirl in a spoonful of your favorite vegan pesto before serving for a fresh, basil-packed punch that enhances the umami.
Wild Mushroom Medley: Use a mix of wild mushrooms like porcini or oyster mushrooms for a more adventurous and earthy taste experience.

With these variations, you’ll discover countless ways to enjoy this delightful Instant Pot risotto!

What to Serve with Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto?

Looking to create a delightful meal around your creamy risotto? Here are some perfect pairings to elevate your dining experience.

Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the risotto while adding a crunchy texture.
Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the velvety risotto, offering a satisfying contrast with every bite.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts enhance the meal with their caramelized sweetness and vibrant colors.
Wine Recommendation: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, its acidity balancing the creaminess of the risotto and enhancing the umami notes.

Indulging in these sides will not only elevate your dish but also create a warm and inviting dining atmosphere for friends and family. Enjoy crafting the perfect meal!

Storage Tips for Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to restore creaminess. This way, your risotto remains delicious and satisfying!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Vegan Mushroom Risotto bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the aromatics and mushrooms up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container after cooling to prevent discoloration. Similarly, you can measure and set aside your rice, broth, and seasonings. When you’re ready to enjoy your risotto, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, add the rice, then pressure cook it as instructed. Stir in the miso paste just before serving, and you’ll have a delicious, gourmet dish ready with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!

Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto Recipe FAQs

What types of mushrooms should I use for the risotto?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms. This combination will provide a rich umami flavor and a hearty texture. Feel free to get creative with seasonal mushrooms or even try adding some wild mushrooms for a gourmet touch!

How do I store leftovers of the risotto?
Very simple! Store the leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it sealed to maintain its creamy texture and flavor. If you plan on enjoying it later, don’t forget to add a splash of vegetable broth when reheating to restore that lovely creaminess!

Can I freeze my risotto, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto, let it cool completely first. Then, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my risotto turns out too thick?
No worries! If you find your risotto too thick after cooking, simply stir in warm vegetable broth a little at a time until you reach the desired creamy consistency. This technique works wonders to revive the creamy texture of the risotto without sacrificing flavor.

Can I adjust the spice levels or dietary preferences?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. If you’re looking to adjust spice levels, you can add red pepper flakes for heat or even sauté some chopped chilies with the onions. For dietary considerations, simply swap out any ingredients that may not fit your dietary needs; the risotto will still retain its delicious charm!

Is this risotto suitable for pets or people with food allergies?
When preparing the Instant Pot Creamy Miso Mushroom Risotto, it’s essential to remember that certain ingredients, like garlic and onion, can be harmful to pets. If you have allergies, always check labels for any potential allergens, especially in the broth and miso paste, as they can contain gluten or other allergens. Always consult with a healthcare professional if in doubt!