⏱ Prep: 15 min · 🔥 Cook: 25 min · 🍽 Serves: 4 · 📊 Medium

A creamy, comforting Italian risotto featuring sautéed mushrooms, arborio rice, and romano cheese for the perfect dinner.

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🥬 Ingredients

For the Mushrooms

• 450g (16 oz) mixed mushrooms, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Risotto

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 medium shallots, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 300g (1 1/2 cups) arborio rice
• 950ml (4 cups) chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• to taste black pepper
• 100g (1 cup) grated romano cheese
• 2 additional tablespoons butter

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped mushrooms, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and salt. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and have released their moisture. Remove from pan and set aside, then wipe the skillet clean.
2. Add 3 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons olive oil to the same skillet over medium heat, allowing the butter to melt completely. Add the chopped shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add the arborio rice and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to lightly toast the grains and coat them with the fat.
4. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and reduce heat to low. Stir occasionally until most of the liquid is absorbed by the rice, about 4-5 minutes. Continue adding broth one cup at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next.
5. After all broth has been incorporated and the rice is creamy and al dente (about 18-20 minutes total), stir the cooked mushrooms back into the risotto. Add the fresh thyme, pepper to taste, romano cheese, and remaining 2 tablespoons butter.
6. Mix everything together until the cheese and butter are fully incorporated and the risotto is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve immediately while hot.

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Warm the chicken broth before adding to help maintain consistent cooking temperature, though room temperature broth works fine too
• Don't rush the process - adding broth gradually and stirring frequently is key to achieving the perfect creamy texture
• Feel free to omit the mushrooms if you're not a fan, or substitute with other vegetables like asparagus or peas

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📝 Personal Notes

Add your tweaks, ratings, and observations after making this recipe.

Source: Instagram