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1
Put the stock in a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer.
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2
In another medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of the butter over moderately low heat.
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3
Add the shallot.
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4
Cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 3 minutes.
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5
Add the rice.
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6
Stir until the rice begins to turn opaque, about 2 minutes.
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7
Add about 1/2 cup of the simmering stock and 1 teaspoon of the salt and cook, stirring constantly, until the stock has been completely absorbed.
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8
The rice and stock should bubble gently; adjust the heat as needed.
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9
Continue cooking the rice, adding the stock 1/2 cup at a time, allowing the rice to completely absorb the stock before adding the next batch.
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10
Cook the rice in this way until tender, about 25 minutes in all.
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11
You may not need to use all of the stock.
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12
Stir in the wine and simmer 1 minute.
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13
Stir the Parmesan and 1/8 teaspoon pepper into the rice.
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14
Transfer to a shallow dish and let cool.
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15
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
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16
Divide the rice into six portions.
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17
With your hands, shape each portion into a cake, about 3 inches in diameter and 3/4 inch high.
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18
Heat the oven to 375.
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19
Spread the pancetta on a baking sheet and bake until crisp, stirring once, about 15 minutes.
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20
If using shiitakes, remove the stems.
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21
Slice all the mushrooms.
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22
In a medium frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of the butter over moderate heat.
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23
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown, about 5 minutes.
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24
Add the garlic, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper and cook 1 minute longer.
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25
Stir in the tomato and cover to keep warm.
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26
In a large nonstick frying pan, heat the oil with the remaining 1 tablespoon butter over moderately high heat.
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27
Add the risotto cakes and cook until brown on both sides and hot in the center, about 3 minutes in all.
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28
You may need to cook the cakes in two batches.
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29
Divide the mushrooms among six plates.
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30
Top each pile of mushrooms with a risotto cake and sprinkle with the pancetta.