This low acid risotto keeps all the traditional creaminess but skips acidic ingredients like wine, garlic, and onion. It’s a warm, comforting dish that’s easy on reflux and sensitive stomachs. Mild aromatics like leeks and garlic-infused olive oil add flavor safely, while Parmesan gives it a smooth, balanced finish. The result is a creamy, satisfying meal that’s GERD-friendly, stomach-soothing, and ready in 35 minutes.
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: for a smooth, rich base
- 1 tablespoon garlic-infused olive oil: reflux-safe flavor
- ½ cup finely chopped leeks or green onion tops: gentle alternative to onion
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: use lightly
- 7–8 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock: warm and mild
- 2 cups arborio rice: classic risotto rice, creamy texture
- 1 tablespoon lactose-free milk or pear juice: replaces acidic wine
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: mild and smooth
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper (optional): gentler on the stomach
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or thyme: for garnish and freshness
How To Make Low Acid Risotto
Warm the Stock:
In a separate pot, bring the chicken or vegetable stock to a gentle simmer. Keep it hot over low heat.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with garlic-infused olive oil over medium-low heat. Add chopped leeks and salt. Sauté 5–6 minutes until soft and translucent (not browned).
Toast the Rice:
Stir in arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes until the grains look glossy and slightly translucent.
Deglaze Gently:
Add the lactose-free milk or pear juice and stir until absorbed. This gives a hint of sweetness without acidity.
Add Broth Gradually:
Add one ladle of warm stock at a time, stirring continuously until mostly absorbed before adding more. Continue for about 20–25 minutes, until the rice is creamy and tender.
Finish the Risotto:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the grated Parmesan. Add a pinch of white pepper if tolerated. Taste and adjust salt gently.
Serve:
Top with fresh parsley or thyme for color and a mild herbal finish. Serve warm.

Recipe Tips:
- Stir often to release starch for creamy texture.
- Do not overcook—the rice should be tender but still slightly firm.
- Skip the wine—warm stock and milk give enough depth.
- Use fresh Parmesan for smoother melting and less acidity.
- Add mild vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas for gentle fiber.
How to Store & Reheat:
- Room Temperature: Not recommended—cool promptly.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm over low heat with a splash of stock or milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving):
- Calories: 290
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbs: 36 g
- Fibre: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
FAQs:
Can I eat risotto with acid reflux?
Yes—this version is wine-free, garlic-free, and uses gentle ingredients that won’t trigger acid.
What’s the best stock for low acid risotto?
Low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock without tomato or onion is best for reflux-sensitive digestion.
Why no wine in this risotto?
White wine is acidic and can cause reflux. Milk or mild juice creates similar balance safely.
What cheese is best for a low acid diet?
Fresh Parmesan or mild mozzarella—both creamy and gentle on the stomach.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use olive oil instead of butter and dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
Try More Recipes:
Low Acid Risotto
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings5
minutes30
minutes290
kcalA creamy, reflux-safe risotto made without wine, garlic, or onion. Gentle on the stomach and full of mild, buttery flavor.
Ingredients
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
1 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil
½ cup finely chopped leeks or green onion tops
½ tsp sea salt
7–8 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
2 cups arborio rice
1 tbsp lactose-free milk or pear juice
½ cup grated Parmesan
¼ tsp white pepper (optional)
1 tbsp chopped parsley or thyme
Directions
- Warm the stock in a separate pot.
- In a large pan, melt 2 tbsp butter with garlic oil. Sauté leeks until soft.
- Add rice; cook 2 min until translucent.
- Stir in milk or pear juice until absorbed.
- Add broth gradually, stirring until creamy (20–25 min).
- Stir in remaining butter and Parmesan.
- Season gently and top with herbs. Serve warm.
