Turkey stew with mushrooms

Turkey stew with mushrooms

I propose a delicious recipe for turkey stew with mushrooms, a savory dish that combines the tenderness of turkey meat with the rich flavor of mushrooms and fresh tomatoes. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, making it an ideal option for a family meal or a gathering with friends. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 800 g turkey breast
- 800 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or pleurotus)
- 6 medium tomatoes or a few tablespoons of concentrated tomato paste
- 2 large onions
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt to taste
- White pepper to taste

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Wash the turkey breast well and pat it dry with a paper towel. This step is essential to remove excess water, which could prevent the meat from browning. Lightly season with salt and pepper, then cut it into strips or cubes, as preferred.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Peel the onion and garlic. Slice the onion thinly and crush the garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife to release their flavors. This will give the dish a more intense taste.

3. Cooking the meat: In a large skillet or pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the turkey breast and let it brown evenly on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the onion and garlic and continue to sauté them together, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Adding the mushrooms: Rinse the mushrooms under cold running water and slice them. Add half of the mushrooms to the skillet and stir. The mushrooms will release water, so add a few tablespoons of boiled water to prevent burning. Once the mushrooms start to soften, add the remaining mushrooms and continue to sauté.

5. Preparing the sauce: Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking. Peel the tomatoes and crush them with a blender, or use concentrated tomato paste for a thicker sauce. Add the tomato sauce to the skillet, mixing well. Let the stew simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until it thickens and the flavors develop.

6. Serving: While the stew is cooking, prepare a polenta. Use half a pack of fine Hungarian cornmeal, cooked according to the instructions on the package. Pour the polenta into wet bowls or oiled ones, allowing it to cool slightly. Then, invert the polenta onto plates.

7. Finishing and decorating: When the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the turkey stew with mushrooms alongside the polenta, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Useful tips:

- You can replace the turkey breast with thighs, which are juicier and offer a richer flavor.
- Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to enhance the texture and color of the dish.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a splash of dry white wine during cooking.

Nutritional benefits:

Turkey meat is an excellent source of lean protein, making it ideal for those looking to maintain weight or build muscle mass. Mushrooms provide fiber and antioxidants, while tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

Possible variations:

- Instead of mushrooms, you can try adding zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
- Use spices like smoked paprika or rosemary to add extra flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted to other types of meat, such as chicken or pork.
2. How can I make the stew spicier? Add chili peppers or chili powder during cooking to give it a more intense flavor.
3. Can I prepare the polenta in advance? Yes, the polenta can be made a few hours ahead, and if kept covered, it will maintain its texture.

This turkey stew with mushrooms is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will bring you closer to your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and savor the rich flavors!