Halloween Spooky Beet Risotto Wine Pairing with American Wines

Let me share a confession: as a kid, having canned beets for dinner was a truly spooky adventure. You might as well have told me to watch Nightmare on Elm Street – I hate scary movies just as much as I hated eating those mushy, metallic-tasting beets from a can. But here's the beautiful thing about growing up and expanding our palates: as an adult, I've discovered that fresh and roasted beets are absolutely magical. Whether tossed in a vibrant salad or served as an elegant side dish, they bring an earthy sweetness that's completely transformed my relationship with this humble root vegetable.

So when I stumbled upon this Halloween Spooky Beet Risotto recipe, it felt like the perfect full-circle moment. This week, we're proving that sophisticated doesn't have to mean stuffy, and that sometimes our childhood "nightmares" can become our adult delights. Our vibrant crimson risotto gets its bewitching hue from earthy roasted beets, creating a dish that's both Instagram-worthy and soul-warming. The natural sweetness of the beets plays beautifully against the creamy, savory rice, while hints of fresh herbs add an aromatic finishing touch that would make any kitchen witch proud.

Chef's Tip:

Roast fresh beets until they are slightly tender. You want to undercook your beets when you are roasting them.  You want to avoid them being mushy when you add to the risotto dish. 

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Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh beets
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry red wine
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1.  Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
2. Cut beets into wedges. Place the beet wedges on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the beets with the olive oil and sprinkle with the salt. Toss until the beets are evenly coated, then arrange them in a single layer across the pan.
3. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, tossing halfway, until you can pierce the beets with a fork under light pressure. Let beets rest
4. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable or chicken broth and keep it warm over low heat.
5. In a separate large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
6. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
   
7. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for a few minutes until lightly toasted.
8. Dice beets. Add the diced beets and continue to cook for another minute.
9. Pour in the red wine and stir until absorbed by the rice.
10. Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until absorbed.

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Wine Recommendations

House of Brown Sauvignon Blanc – The bright acidity and crisp minerality of this Sauvignon Blanc cuts beautifully through the rich, creamy texture of the risotto while amplifying the fresh herb notes. Its zesty character provides a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate between bites.

2022 McPherson High Plains Sangiovese, High Plains, TX – This Texas gem brings medium-bodied elegance with earthy undertones that mirror the roasted beet flavors perfectly. Sangiovese's natural acidity balances the dish's richness, while its subtle red fruit notes complement the beets' natural sweetness without overpowering the savory elements.

2022 Kiona Lemberger, Red Mountain, Yakima Valley, WA – Here's where the magic truly happens. Lemberger (also known as Blaufränkisch) is practically made for earthy vegetables like beets. This Washington beauty offers bright acidity, moderate tannins, and distinctive mineral notes that enhance the beet's terroir-driven flavors. Its food-friendly nature makes every spoonful of risotto sing.

2024 Sheree Harvest Sparkling Cabernet Franc, Southern Plains, MD – For those seeking pure enchantment, this Maryland sparkler brings festive bubbles and sophisticated elegance to your Halloween table. Cabernet Franc's signature herbal and earthy characteristics beautifully echo the beet's natural terroir, while the effervescence cuts through the risotto's richness like a magical spell. The wine's bright acidity and delicate red fruit notes create a celebratory pairing that's perfect for toasting the season.

Whether you're hosting a Halloween dinner party or simply want to add some seasonal flair to your weeknight routine, these pairings celebrate the beauty of autumn's bounty while showcasing wines from diverse American regions. After all, great wine and food should bring joy, not intimidation.