Creamy Risotto with Fresh & Dried Mushrooms

Updated: Sep 29, 2025

Creamy Risotto with Fresh & Dried Mushrooms
General Information
  • Side Dishes
  • Savory
  • 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Vegetarian
  • Gluten-Free
  • 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups of rice (e.g. Arborio)
  • 8 ounces of mushrooms (cremini; sliced)
  • 1 ounce of HerbaZest Dried Mushrooms
  • 4 cups of vegetable broth
  • 2 cups of water (hot; for soaking dried mushrooms)
  • 2 tablespoons of butter (divided)
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese (shredded)
  • 1 teaspoon of thyme (fresh; chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon of parsley (fresh; chopped)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • Salt (to taste)

Directions

Earthy and rich, this risotto combines the deep umami of rehydrated slippery jack mushrooms with fresh creminis, aromatic herbs, and creamy rice. Finished with butter and Parmesan, it's a comforting side dish perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings.

  1. Soak dried slippery jack mushrooms in hot water for 30 minutes. Roughly chop and set aside. Reserve the soaking liquid.(30 minutes)
  2. In a saucepan, combine vegetable broth and mushroom soaking liquid. Keep warm over low heat.(2 minutes)
  3. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of butter. Sauté the chopped onion with salt and pepper for 6–7 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.(8 minutes)
  4. Add the cremini mushrooms and cook 3–5 minutes, until mushrooms are tender and liquid evaporates.(5 minutes)
  5. Stir in the rehydrated mushrooms, thyme, and parsley. Then add the rice and stir to coat. Toast for 1 minute. Begin adding the hot broth mixture 2 ladles at a time, stirring often. Allow each addition to absorb before adding more. Continue for 26–28 minutes, until the risotto is creamy and the rice is al dente.(30 minutes)
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in ⅓ cup of Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1 teaspoon of butter. Serve topped with extra cheese, fresh parsley, and thyme. Enjoy!