Wild Rice Mushroom Risotto

Instructions

1. Prepare the wild rice
   In a separate saucepan, cook the wild rice according to package instructions until tender but still slightly chewy, about 30-35 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the mushrooms
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Add half of the minced garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another minute. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Start the risotto base
   In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the remaining garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Toast the Arborio rice
   Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir to coat with the oil and butter. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes until the edges become translucent but the center remains white.
5. Deglaze and begin adding broth
   Pour in the white wine and stir constantly until the liquid is almost completely absorbed. Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be mostly absorbed before adding more. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.
6. Combine rice varieties
   When the Arborio rice is almost tender but still has a slight bite, fold in the cooked wild rice and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, adding more broth if needed, until the Arborio rice reaches the perfect al dente texture.
7. Finish the risotto
   Remove the pot from heat and stir in the reserved sautéed mushrooms, remaining tablespoon of butter, grated Parmesan cheese, thyme, and sage. Stir vigorously until the risotto becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Rest and serve
   Cover the pot and let the risotto rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.