Mushroom stew with chicken schnitzel and mashed potatoes

Mushroom stew with chicken schnitzel and mashed potatoes

If you are looking for a recipe that combines the savory taste of mushrooms with the crispy texture of chicken schnitzel and the creaminess of mashed potatoes, you have come to the right place. This mushroom stew with chicken schnitzel and mashed potatoes is perfect for a comforting dinner, whether you prepare it for lunch or at midnight when culinary inspiration strikes. Let's explore this delicious recipe together!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the stew:
- 3-4 medium onions
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for vibrant color)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 medium potato
- 2 cans of mushrooms (approx. 400 g)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (or 200 g of canned tomatoes)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of vegeta (or preferred spices)
- 1-2 tablespoons of sweet paprika
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing
- Water (enough to cover the ingredients)

For the chicken schnitzel:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 eggs
- Breadcrumbs (approx. 200 g)
- Salt and pepper
- Oil for frying

For the mashed potatoes:
- 4-5 large potatoes
- 50 g butter
- 100 ml milk
- Salt to taste

Preparing the mushroom stew

1. Start by cleaning and chopping the vegetables. Chop the onion, carrots, and potato finely. Dice the bell pepper, and roughly chop the tomatoes. These vegetables will form the flavorful base of your stew.

2. In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and sauté the onion over medium heat. Sautéing the onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish. After about 2-3 minutes, add the chopped carrot, bell pepper, and potato. Mix everything well.

3. Pour a little water into the pot, just enough to cover the vegetables, and add salt, pepper, vegeta, and bay leaves. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables become slightly soft.

4. Now it's time to add the mushrooms. Drain the canned mushrooms and chop them finely, then add them to the pot. Add enough water to cover the ingredients. Let the stew simmer for another 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are cooked.

5. Finally, season the stew with pepper and sweet paprika. The paprika adds warmth and a beautiful color. Once all the flavors have combined, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Preparing the chicken schnitzel

1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin pieces. It's important to make them of uniform size so they cook evenly. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

3. Dip the chicken slices in the eggs, then in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated. This breadcrumb layer will make the schnitzel crispy and tasty.

4. In a deep frying pan, heat the oil (about 1 cm high). When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken schnitzels. Cook them on each side for 4-5 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. Remove them onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Preparing the mashed potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Boil them in salted water until soft, about 15-20 minutes.

2. Once done, drain the water and add the butter and milk. Use a potato masher or a mixer to achieve a creamy mash. Season with salt to taste.

Plating the dish

To serve this dish, place a portion of mashed potatoes on a plate, add a generous portion of mushroom stew on top, and complete with a crispy schnitzel on the side. Optionally, you can also add pickles, which will bring a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast. If you like cheese, feel free to grate some cheese on top, which will melt slightly and add an extra flavor.

Useful tips

- Use fresh mushrooms if possible for better taste and texture.
- You can also add other vegetables to the stew, such as zucchini or peas, for extra nutrients.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add chopped chili pepper to the stew.
- I recommend using a mix of olive oil and butter for frying the schnitzel, as it will add a delicious flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Yes, frozen mushrooms can be used, but make sure to thaw them before adding them to the stew.

2. How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
For an ultra-creamy mash, use sour cream instead of milk and add more butter.

3. Are there variations for this dish?
Yes, you can add beef or pork to the stew, and the mash can be replaced with cauliflower puree or sweet potato mash.

Nutritional benefits

This mushroom stew is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Mushrooms are a good source of plant-based protein and antioxidants, while the vegetables add essential nutrients. The chicken schnitzel provides lean protein, and the mashed potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates.

If you are looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, the mushroom stew with chicken schnitzel and mashed potatoes is the perfect choice. Whether you cook it for yourself or for loved ones, every bite will bring a smile to your face. Enjoy your meal!