The main ingredient in traditional risotto is arborio rice, a short-grain variety that is essential for achieving the dish's characteristic creamy texture. Arborio rice has a high starch content, which releases during cooking, creating the creamy consistency that risotto is known for. Preparing risotto involves slowly adding warm broth to the rice while stirring continuously, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid gradually. This method requires patience and attention, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish often enhanced with ingredients like Parmesan cheese, butter, and various vegetables or proteins.