Champagne Risotto

Directions

1. 1
   Bring the broth to a simmer in a medium saucepan and keep warm over low heat.
2. 2
   Heat 2 Tbsp. butter and the olive oil in a separate medium saucepan over medium heat until the butter is melted.
3. 3
   Add the shallots and garlic and cook until softened, but not brown, about 5 minutes.
4. 4
   Stir in the rice and cook until it is well-coated with the oil/butter mixture and begins to turn translucent, about 1-2 minutes.
5. 5
   Add the champagne and simmer until all of the liquid is absorbed, about 3-5 minutes.
6. 6
   Add about 1 cup of the warm broth from to the rice and stir regularly until the liquid is absorbed, about 3-5 minutes. You'll know the liquid is absorbed when you run your spoon through the rice and liquid doesn't immediately fill the bottom of the pan. Repeat, adding broth 1 cup at a time, until the rice is al dente (cooked through but still firm), about 18-22 minutes. While you don't have to stir the rice the entire time, you shouldn't leave the rice unattended for more than a minute or two and do stir the rice frequently.
7. 7
   Combine the Parmesan, heavy cream, and pepper in a bowl.
8. 8
   When the risotto is done, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the cheese, cream, and pepper mixture long with the remaining 2 Tbsp. of butter. Add salt to taste. Garnish at will.