GETTING READY

1. In a bowl, soak dried ear mushroom in boiling water. Cover it with lid, and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes.

2. With a sieve, drain mushroom, and reserve the stock for later use. Set stock and mushroom aside.

MAKING

3. Place a deep sided sauté pan over medium-low heat, and pour 2 tablespoon butter and olive oil in it.

4. Throw shallots and sauté for 2 minutes. Insert garlic and cook for one more minute.

5. Pop in fresh mushrooms and cook for about 3 minutes.

6. Add wood ear mushrooms, and stir to incorporate.

7. Sprinkle salt and pepper.

8. Add rice, and stir until oil coat the grains.

9. Pour wine, mix it well, and cook until completely absorbed.

10. Stir in stock, a cup at a time, letting rice absorb the liquid. Cook for about 30 minutes, or until the risotto is creamy and soft.

11. Season with salt and pepper.

FINALIZING

12. Remove the pan from heat and stir in butter.

SERVING

13. Garnish risotto with fresh cilantro and serve it hot.

TIPS

You can also use mushroom stock, if required to cook rice.