Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (kept warm)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 oz (about 2 cups) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Mushrooms:

   • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. This may take about 5-7 minutes.

2. Toast the Rice:

   • Add the Arborio rice to the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms and onion. Stir for a minute or two until the rice is well-coated with the mushroom mixture and heated through.

3. Add the Garlic and Thyme:

   • Stir in the minced garlic and thyme. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

4. Add the Wine:

   • Pour in the white wine and cook until it's mostly absorbed by the rice.

5. Cook the Risotto:

   • Begin adding the warm broth to the rice, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each ladle of broth to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked to your desired level of doneness, usually about 18-20 minutes.

6. Stir in the Mascarpone and Parmesan:

   • Once the risotto is creamy and the rice is tender, stir in the mascarpone and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

7. Serve Hot:

   • Garnish the Creamy Mushroom Risotto with chopped fresh parsley and serve it hot.

This Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Thyme and Mascarpone Cheese is a luxurious and savory dish that's perfect for special occasions or a gourmet meal. The combination of earthy mushrooms, fragrant thyme, and creamy cheese creates a harmonious and delectable flavor. Enjoy your homemade risotto!