1 ounce (30 g) dried wild mushrooms, or 8 ounce (250 g) fresh mushrooms (any variety or mixture of varieties)
2 cups (500 ml) chicken stock
(4 cups (1 L) if using fresh mushrooms)
2 tablespoon finely chopped shallots or onion
4 tablespoon butter
3 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups raw Italian Arborio rice*
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
If using dried mushrooms (recommended) soak in 2 cups (500 ml) warm water for at least 30 minutes, until the mushrooms are soft. Remove from the water and chop coarsely. Strain the water through a paper towel and combine it with the 2 cups (500 ml) of chicken stock in a saucepan. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat. If using fresh mushrooms, chop coarsely and set aside, and bring 4 cups of chicken stock to a simmer.
In a heavy 2 qt. (2 L) pot over medium heat sauté the shallots in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of butter and 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil until translucent but not brown. Add the rice, stir to thoroughly coat with the oil and butter, and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the wine or 1/2 cup (125 ml) of the simmering stock, stirring frequently.
When the liquid is almost completely absorbed add another 1/2 cup (125 ml) stock, and repeat this process for 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the mushrooms and continue adding stock as it becomes absorbed for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the rice is done. You may have some stock left over; do not feel compelled to use it all, as this will make the risotto too runny. Test the rice for doneness by tasting it; it should be “al dente” (soft but still firm to the tooth) and the risotto should be creamy at this stage. When the rice is cooked remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and the remaining 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of butter. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Serves 4 to 6.
*Arborio rice really is the secret to this dish, and is available in finer supermarkets and specialty shops. Long-grained rice may be used, but the results will be inferior.