Risotto Mix

I really liked this idea. A perfect gift in jar for people who aren't to fond of sweets and something different from the typical soup mix. The recipe comes from Holiday Gifts from A Jar.

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• Mix

• 2  cups arborio rice
• 1  cup  dried wild mushrooms, chopped
• 1⁄2 cup sun-dried tomato, chopped (not oil packed)
• 1⁄4 cup  minced dehydrated dried chives
• 1⁄2 teaspoon saffron
• 1⁄4 cup pine nuts

• Risotto

• 8  cups chicken broth
• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 1  tablespoon butter
• 1⁄2 cup  finely chopped shallots or 1⁄2 cup red onion
• 3⁄4-1  cup parmesan cheese, shredded

Directions

1. For the mix: Layer ingredients in order listed, packing lightly before adding each layer.
2. Seal jar, cover top with fabric and attach a gift tag with directions for preparing the risotto.
3. In a medium saucepan, heat broth and keep at a simmer.
4. Heat oil and butter in a large skillet; add the shallot and cook over medium heat for 3 minutes or until tender, stir in risotto mix.
5. Cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until rice glistens.
6. Pour about 1/2 cup broth into skillet, cook and stir at medium-low heat until rice absorbs broth, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add 1/2 cup of broth and repeat; continue until all liquid has been incorporated, rice should be tender but slightly firm at the center.
8. When the rice is cooked through, stir in cheese and serve immediately.