Classic Mushroom Risotto

1. Over medium heat, warm vegetable broth in a small saucepan until simmering (but not boiling).
2. Meanwhile, place a burner-sized saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add a few drops of vegetable broth then the sliced mushrooms. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. Sauté until tender, then remove and set aside.
4. Add a few more drops of vegetable broth to the pan, then the leeks and shallots. Sprinkle with pepper. Sauté until softened, then remove and set aside with mushrooms.
5. Add arborio rice to the same saucepan.
6. Cook for 1 minute then add white wine. Cook another 1-2 minutes until the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Add hot vegetable broth 1/2 cup at a time. Stir regularly to avoid burning. Simmer (but not boil) until the broth has been absorbed, then add the next 1/2 cup.
8. Continue for 15-20 minutes or until rice is al dente. There may be unused vegetable broth.
9. Remove from heat. Add leeks, shallots, most of the mushrooms, and Vegan Parmesan (if desired).
10. Stir and add freshly ground black pepper to taste.
11. Spoon risotto into bowls.
12. Top with a few cooked mushrooms, a sprinkle of Vegan Parmesan (if desired) and fresh chopped parsley (if desired). Serve.

Notes: It is best to use a burner-sized pan when preparing risotto so it is heated evenly and the rice has a chance to rub together to create starch, which makes the dish creamy. The vegetable broth should be pre-heated so cooking time is not slowed. Make sure the heat is adjusted so the rice is simmering but not boiling. Stir almost constantly to avoid sticking and burning, but take periodic, brief breaks so the rice does not become gluey. Only add as much vegetable broth as needed for the rice to reach al dente texture. Vegetables should always be added at the end, off the heat, to prevent them from becoming mushy. This classic Italian recipe is traditionally prepared with white wine, which gives the rice added flavor. However, vegetable broth may be substituted.