Arborio rice gives a dish its creaminess while preserving at the same time the cherished “al dente” feel. Instead of Arborio one can also use other medium-grain rice varieties like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice.
Arborio rice is named after the town of Arborio, in the Po Valley. It is also grown in Arkansas, California, and Missouri. My favorite brand in the US is Della Rice from Arkansas.
