Cannelloni with minced meat and mushrooms

Name: Cannelloni with minced meat and mushrooms - Violeta N.
Ingredients: 12 pieces of cannelloni; 300 g minced pork; 300 g mushrooms; 3 eggs; 2; 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs; 3 tablespoons of pepper paste; 200 ml broth; 200 ml sour cream; 150 g mozzarella; one onion; chopped parsley; oil; salt; pepper; thyme.

Pasta/Pizza - Cannelloni with minced meat and mushrooms by Violeta N. - Recipia

Cannelloni with minced meat and mushrooms - A savory and comforting recipe Preparation time: 20 minutes Baking time: 40 minutes Total time: 60 minutes Number of servings: 4-6 Who doesn't love a dish that combines the rich flavors of meat with the delicate texture of mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy sauce? Cannelloni with minced meat and mushrooms are not only a delicious choice for lunch or dinner but also a perfect recipe to impress your guests. This dish, originating from the culinary traditions of various European cultures, brings a touch of warmth and comfort to every plate. The ingredients needed to prepare this delight are as follows: - 12 pieces of cannelloni - 300 g minced pork (or a mix of pork and beef) - 300 g fresh mushrooms (wild mushrooms, champignon, or cremini are excellent) - 1 medium onion - 3 eggs (2 for the filling and 1 for the sauce) - 2-3 tablespoons breadcrumbs - 3 tablespoons pepper paste (choose a quality paste to enhance the flavors) - 200 ml tomato sauce (preferably homemade) - 200 ml cooking cream (with a high-fat content for a creamy sauce) - 150 g grated mozzarella (or a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor) - 2-3 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable) - Salt, pepper, and fresh or dried thyme - Chopped fresh parsley (for an extra touch of freshness) Step-by-step preparation: 1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and mushrooms. Make sure the mushrooms are fresh and well-washed. This step is essential for adding a rich flavor to the filling. 2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pan, add the 4 tablespoons of oil and heat it well. Add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. It's important not to burn it, as it will become bitter. 3. Adding the meat and mushrooms: Once the onion has softened, add the minced meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to break up the meat lumps. After the meat starts to brown, add the mushrooms. Cook everything over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release all their water and it evaporates, about 10-12 minutes. 4. Seasoning: Once the water has evaporated, add the pepper paste and thyme. These will add depth to the flavor. Continue to cook for a few minutes to integrate the flavors, then turn off the heat. 5. Preparing the filling: Let the mixture cool slightly, then add the breadcrumbs, chopped fresh parsley, and two of the three eggs. Mix well until homogeneous. Taste the filling, and if necessary, adjust the seasoning. 6. Filling the cannelloni: Using a spoon or a pastry bag, fill each cannelloni tube with the meat mixture. Carefully place them in a baking dish. Make sure not to overfill, as the filling will expand during baking. 7. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, mix the tomato sauce with 200 ml of water. Pour this mixture over the cannelloni, ensuring that each tube is well covered. This step will allow the cannelloni to bake evenly. 8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This will allow the cannelloni to soften and absorb the flavors from the sauce. 9. Preparing the cheese sauce: While the cannelloni are baking, prepare the cheese sauce. Grate the mozzarella into a bowl, add the cream and the third egg. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. 10. Finalizing the dish: After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and remove the foil. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cannelloni. Put the dish back in the oven for another 10 minutes, until the cheese becomes golden and bubbly. 11. Serving: Once the dish is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for an attractive appearance. This dish goes wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. Practical tips: - You can use any type of minced meat, depending on your preferences. Beef or chicken are excellent options. - Experiment with different types of mushrooms to add an interesting note. Shiitake mushrooms, for example, can bring a more intense flavor. - If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables or ricotta cheese mixed with spinach. - For a more intense flavor, you can add some olives or roasted bell peppers to the filling. Frequently asked questions: - Can I use homemade cannelloni? Yes, if you have the time and desire, homemade cannelloni will bring a unique taste and texture. - What can I do with leftovers? Cannelloni with minced meat and mushrooms can be frozen without any problems. It's an excellent dish to prepare in advance. Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe offers approximately 550-600 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good source of protein due to the meat and eggs, while the mushrooms provide fiber and essential vitamins. The cream and cheese contribute calcium and healthy fats. Cannelloni with minced meat and mushrooms is a recipe that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a touch of joy to every meal. Don't hesitate to try it and personalize your filling according to your tastes! Enjoy your meal!