Smokey Fall Risotto

Fall...I can feel it in the air!  One of my favorite times of the year!  With fall comes the need to make dinner's really quick and cheap because of all the children's sports schedules!  Here is a dinner that is needs some stirring but really ends up being wonderful and easy for me! 

                                          1 1/2 cups re-hydrated mushrooms
                                           (I buy these in bulk at Costco and they
                                            last forever)

1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons, olive oil
1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
4 cups beef broth
2-3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tablespoon butter
The filtered water from the mushroom soak (directions below)
Salt & Pepper to Taste

Method:

1) Place the the re-hydrated mushrooms in a bowl and cover with just enough water to rehydrate them.  They do not take very long.
2) Meanwhile, saute onion in olive oil until soft then, add the garlic and continue for a minute before adding the rice.  Saute the rice and continue sauteing until it begins to turn color (more opaque)!
3) Gradually start adding the water from the mushroom soak (about 1/2 cup at a time), constantly stirring while letting it evaporate.  Continue this process adding the mushrooms in at the same time until you have used all the mushroom soak then start using the beef broth.  Keep this process going until the rice is just done (don't over cook).
4) Next, add the Parmesan cheese, thyme, butter, and salt and pepper to taste.  Serve with more Parmesan at the table. 

NOTE: This is great with a salad on the side!