A luxuriously creamy risotto layered with deep umami from both dried shiitakes and sautéed fresh mushrooms, finished with butter, Parmesan, and bright herbs. Comforting yet elegant, it delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Prepare broth: Add dried shiitakes to a high-speed blender and blend to a fine powder. Let the powder settle before opening the lid. Add 4 cups of vegetable broth and blend on low until incorporated. Transfer to a medium saucepan, add the remaining 3 cups broth, cover, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Keep hot with a ladle nearby.
Cook risotto: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large, wide heavy pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add rice and cook 1 minute, stirring to coat. Ladle about 1½ cups of hot stock over the rice. Stir in ½ teaspoon of the salt and the black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. When the liquid is nearly absorbed, add about 1 cup hot stock at a time and repeat. Cook until rice is tender and creamy, 16 to 22 minutes; do not overcook.
Cook mushrooms: When the risotto is 5 to 10 minutes from being done, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and thyme; cook until golden brown, 5 to 8 minutes. Stir in the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat.
Assemble: Stir the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and Parmesan into the risotto. Taste and adjust seasoning. Spoon risotto into dishes, top with sautéed mushrooms, and garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired.