stew with mushrooms

Spezzatino with mushrooms - A delicious recipe that combines intense flavors and rich textures

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

Spezzatino, a classic dish enjoyed by meat lovers, is an excellent choice for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner. This spezzatino with mushrooms recipe brings together succulent beef, aromatic mushrooms, and fresh vegetables, creating a dish that invites you to sit down and savor every bite.

The history of this dish is deep, rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, where slow cooking is appreciated for its ability to enhance the flavors of the ingredients. This simple yet sophisticated recipe will bring a touch of that tradition into your kitchen.

Necessary ingredients:

- 800 g beef (choose a piece of meat with a moderate fat content for a juicy result)
- 2 carrots (preferably fresh for a sweeter taste)
- 2 medium onions (yellow onion is ideal, but you can experiment with red onion for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 heaping tablespoon of flour (to give a bit of consistency to the sauce)
- 5 tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin olive oil will add a distinct flavor)
- 1/2 cup of red wine (a quality wine that you could drink alongside the meal)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 400 g mushrooms (choose fresh mushrooms, such as champignon or pleurotus)
- 2 cloves of garlic (without a doubt, fresh garlic will provide a more intense flavor)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Grate the carrots to turn them into a fine texture that will blend perfectly into the sauce. Clean the mushrooms and slice them. The garlic will be crushed or sliced thinly.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 5 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, sautéing them for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. This step will release the sweet aromas and create a delicious base for the sauce.

3. Adding the meat: Cut the beef into cubes of about 2-3 cm. Add the meat to the skillet and mix well to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the meat to brown for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. It is essential for the meat to develop a nice crust, which will add extra flavor.

4. Preparing the sauce: After the meat has browned, add the flour and mix well. This will help thicken the sauce. Then add the red wine, allowing it to boil for about 2-3 minutes to evaporate the alcohol and concentrate the flavors.

5. Slow simmering: Add enough vegetable or meat broth to cover the meat. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 40 minutes. It is important to stir occasionally and add broth if necessary to maintain a pleasant consistency.

6. Cooking the mushrooms: In another skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add the sliced mushrooms along with the garlic. Cook them for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently until they brown and become tender. Finally, add the mushrooms to the skillet with the meat and mix well, allowing them to combine for another 5 minutes.

7. Serving: Now that the dish is ready, it's time to choose your side! You can opt for warm, creamy polenta or a slightly buttery mashed potato, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the spezzatino. Personally, I prefer polenta, but mashed potatoes add a soft texture and blend excellently with the sauce. Don't forget a glass of red wine, which will make the culinary experience even more enjoyable!

Useful tips:

- You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the recipe.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, add a little dried or fresh chili pepper.
- Make sure to choose a wine that you enjoy drinking, as it will directly influence the final flavor of the dish.
- The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves over time, making it ideal for preparing in advance.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use pork or chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can adapt the recipe to your preferences. Pork or chicken will require a shorter cooking time.
2. How can I thicken the sauce if it is too thin? You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water to thicken it.
3. What type of red wine is most suitable? Choose a dry wine, such as merlot or cabernet sauvignon, which will pair excellently with the meat and mushrooms.

This spezzatino with mushrooms recipe is not only a way to enjoy a delicious meal but also an opportunity to bring a touch of culinary traditions into your kitchen. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love that went into creating this recipe. Enjoy your meal!