Potato puree with mushroom sauce and pork

Potato Purée with Mushroom Sauce and Pork

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of cooking! Today, I will share with you a special recipe that combines creamy mashed potatoes with a savory mushroom and pork sauce. This recipe is perfect for cool days when you crave a culinary comfort full of flavor. Let's get started!

A bit of history

Mashed potatoes are a classic dish that has its origins in traditional cuisine. It is a versatile side dish, appreciated by generations, that pairs perfectly with a variety of sauces. Meat and vegetable sauces, like the one we will prepare, add richness and flavor, transforming a simple meal into a true culinary experience.

Ingredients

For the purée:
- 6 large potatoes
- Salt (to taste)
- 100 ml milk (can be adjusted for desired consistency)

For the sauce:
- 2 medium onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 200 g mushrooms (champignon or forest mushrooms, as preferred)
- 1/2 kg pork (shoulder or leg are most suitable)
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Pepper (to taste)
- Vegeta (or preferred spices)
- Oil (for sautéing)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the potato purée

1. Start by peeling the potatoes. Wash them well under running water, then cut them into cubes of about 3 cm. This will help them cook evenly.
2. Place the potato cubes in a large pot, add water and salt (about a teaspoon), and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes or until soft to the touch with a fork.
3. Once the potatoes are ready, drain them and mash them in a large bowl. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously, until you achieve a creamy and smooth consistency. Feel free to adjust the amount of milk according to your personal preferences. If you want a richer purée, add a little butter as well.

Step 2: Preparing the mushroom and pork sauce

1. While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the sauce. Peel the onions and chop them into small cubes. Slice the bell pepper into thin strips and grate the carrot. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to the sauce.
2. In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the bell pepper and carrot, continuing to sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cut the pork into cubes of about 2-3 cm and add it to the skillet. Cook the meat for 8-10 minutes until it is lightly browned on all sides.
5. Add the cubed mushrooms and mix well. Allow the mushrooms to cook for 5 minutes until they release their juices.
6. Add water (about 200 ml) to allow the meat to simmer. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes until the meat is tender.
7. Once the meat is cooked, add the tomato paste, Vegeta, pepper, and mix well. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, uncovered, to reduce the sauce and achieve a concentrated flavor.

Step 3: Serving

1. Serve the potato purée in a bowl or on a deep plate, creating a small crater in the middle to add the mushroom and pork sauce.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.
3. A personal suggestion is to add pickles or a summer salad on the side, which will bring a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Useful tips

- For an even tastier potato purée, you can replace some of the milk with cream or add grated cheddar cheese.
- If you want to make the sauce healthier, you can use chicken or turkey, which are leaner.
- Experiment with mushrooms – shiitake or porcini mushrooms will add a rich, distinctive flavor.
- Don't forget to taste the sauce during cooking to adjust the spices according to your preferences.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the purée.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
You can add chili flakes or chili sauce to the sauce, depending on how spicy you prefer it.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a blonde beer are excellent choices that pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the sauce.

This potato purée with mushroom sauce and pork is not just a delicious meal but also a recipe that brings family and friends together around the table. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and comfort of a dish cooked with love. So, don't hesitate to prepare it tonight and enjoy a special moment! Bon appétit!