Carnaroli Rice

A short-grained Italian rice that features small plump grains, a high starch content, and a creamy texture when cooked. It is much like Arborio rice and both can be used in many of the same types of dishes. Because it retains its shape as it absorbs liquid during cooking, it is well suited for preparing the Italian rice dish, risotto. Carnaroli is the rice variety that is most often preferred for risotto even though it is more expensive than other varieties. Since Italian rice varieties contain more starch than other types of rice, it is important not to rinse the rice before or after cooking because the starch is an important component for many of the dishes made with carnaroli, such as risotto. Carnaroli rice is available in Italian markets, some well-stocked food stores, specialty markets, and through mail order suppliers.