Mushroom stew

Mushroom stew: a savory dish, full of flavor and color, that combines simplicity with a special taste. This recipe is ideal for a family meal or to impress friends at a casual dinner. Here’s how to prepare a delicious mushroom stew, step by step.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g champignon mushrooms (or seasonal fresh mushrooms)
- 6 green onions
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 250 ml milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- 1-2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- Vegeta (or your preferred spice mix)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 bunch fresh parsley

Utensils

- Vegetable cutter
- Large pot
- Wooden spatula
- Mixing bowl

Preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by cleaning the mushrooms. It is recommended to wipe them with a damp cloth to remove dirt, avoiding excessive washing that could make them absorb water. Slice the mushrooms thinly. Chop the green onions finely, including the green part, and dice the bell pepper.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped green onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and release their aroma. This step is essential for creating the flavor base of the stew.

3. Add the bell pepper and mushrooms: Once the onion is cooked, add the bell pepper. Let it sauté with the onion for 2 minutes. Then, add the sliced mushrooms. Stir well and let them cook until the mushrooms release their juice and become soft (about 5-7 minutes). If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of crushed garlic at this point.

4. Season: Add the sweet paprika and mix well. This ingredient will not only add flavor but also give a vibrant color to your stew. Follow with 500 ml of water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor) and let it boil for 10-15 minutes. Cover the pot to retain moisture.

5. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the milk until you obtain a smooth mixture. This mix will thicken the sauce of the stew. Once the mushrooms have boiled, gradually add the flour and milk mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

6. Finalize the stew: Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, then add Vegeta and pepper to taste. Once you have achieved the desired consistency, remove the stew from heat and add the chopped parsley. This will add not only flavor but also freshness to the dish.

7. Serving: The mushroom stew is served hot, perfect alongside a portion of polenta, rice, or fresh bread. You can drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil before serving for an extra touch of sophistication.

Helpful tips

- Variations: You can add additional vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to diversify the recipe. You could also replace the champignon mushrooms with other types, such as shiitake or porcini, for different flavors.
- Tricks to avoid lumps: If you want to ensure your sauce will be perfect, you can prepare a roux (mixture of flour and oil) separately and then add the hot liquid. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Nutritional benefits: Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially B), and minerals. This stew is an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, ideal for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned mushrooms?
Yes, but make sure to drain them well from the liquid they were preserved in and add them at the end of the cooking process, so they don’t become too soft.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add a bit of hot pepper or chili sauce in the step where you add the sweet paprika.

3. What drinks pair well with mushroom stew?
A pale beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices that will perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

Conclusion

This mushroom stew is not only a flavorful dish but also a versatile recipe that allows you to experiment with various ingredients. Whether you choose to serve it plain or with a side dish, it will delight you with every bite. Don’t forget to add a personal touch, perhaps a piece of fresh bread or a crunchy green salad, and your meal will be truly memorable. Enjoy your meal!