01 -
Heat vegetable or chicken stock in a saucepan over low heat and keep hot throughout cooking to ensure even rice cooking and flavor absorption.
02 -
Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat, then sauté sliced mushrooms until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
03 -
In the same pan, cook finely chopped onion or shallot over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
04 -
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding burning.
05 -
Add Arborio rice to the pan with onion and garlic, stirring constantly to lightly toast for 1-2 minutes to develop flavor and texture.
06 -
Pour in dry white wine, if using, and stir until mostly absorbed to add subtle acidity and depth.
07 -
Add warm stock one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more, releasing rice starch for creaminess.
08 -
Continue adding stock and stirring for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender with a slight bite and creamy consistency is achieved.
09 -
Stir sautéed mushrooms back into the rice for even flavor distribution.
10 -
Remove from heat and stir in remaining butter and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper, then serve immediately.