Mushroom orzotto

1 Cook the orzo in plenty of boiling salted water till just al dente, then drain and return the orzo to the pot. Keep warm. I usually have this simmering as I cook the mushrooms.

2 Melt the butter in a pan and, when it is hot, add the mushrooms. Leave undisturbed for a few minutes, then season with salt and pepper, turning gently. Leave to cook for 5-8 minutes more until the mushrooms have caramelised in places and have a good colour. Lower the heat and add the crushed garlic, stir over the heat for a few seconds for the raw taste to disappear.

3 Add the white wine or Sambuca and leave to simmer for 30 seconds before stirring in the mustard. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the mushroom mix to the pot of orzo along with the parsley, thyme and cream.

4 Stir well over a low heat for a minute to warm through. Stir in the Parmesan. Taste for seasoning, then serve right away with extra Parmesan on top.