Is risotto gluten-free? Usually, check the stock

Usually, yes. Risotto is rice (arborio, carnaroli or vialone nano) cooked slowly in stock, finished with butter and cheese, often with a splash of wine. None of these contains gluten.

What to check

• The stock: stock cubes and granules can contain wheat. Ask what the kitchen uses.
• Ready-made risotto mixes: read the label.
• Arancini and supplì, the fried rice balls: coated in breadcrumbs, so wheat, and fried in shared oil.
• Toppings: fried onions or crumbs on top.

In Italy

Risotto is one of the easier orders, especially in the north where it’s everyday food. Say you have celiachia and ask about the stock (brodo).

Keep reading

• The Hidden-Gluten Watchlist: the 15 forbidden names and the ones to check
• Is rice gluten-free?
• Is cheese gluten-free?
• Gluten-free Italy

Sources: Coeliac UK, NHS, Codex Alimentarius (gluten-free = 20 mg/kg or less), EU Regulation 1169/2011, and our own country guides. Last checked: 28 September 2026. We inform, we don’t diagnose: for medical questions, your doctor or dietitian has the last word.