Vermicelli with mushrooms and parmesan

Vermicelli with Mushrooms and Parmesan: A Delicacy at Home

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, sometimes it's good to return to the simple and delicious essences of cooking. Today, I present you a recipe that combines elegance with simplicity: vermicelli with mushrooms and parmesan, in a creamy sour cream sauce. This recipe is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that brings together fresh ingredients and subtle flavors, perfect for a romantic dinner or a family meal.

A Brief History of Vermicelli

Vermicelli are thin pasta, similar to noodles, that have been used in various culinary cultures over time. They can be found in both long and short varieties, being extremely versatile. Used in soups or with delicate sauces, vermicelli are perfect for absorbing flavors, turning any meal into a celebration of tastes.

Ingredients

- 1 handful of vermicelli pasta (about 100g)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of butter
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 small twig of dried sage
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of freshly ground pepper
- 1 handful of mushrooms (about 150g)
- 50 ml semi-sweet wine (or chicken/vegetable broth, if you prefer)
- 50 ml cooking cream
- 2-3 tablespoons of finely grated parmesan

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 2

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by washing the mushrooms well to remove any impurities. Let them dry on a paper towel or gently pat them dry. If they are large, cut them into quarters or halves to ensure even cooking.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a pan, add the olive oil and butter. When the butter has melted, add the finely chopped garlic. Sauté over medium heat for a few seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the twig of dried sage and let the flavors infuse for 30-40 seconds. Remove the sage twig and add it to the water in which you will boil the pasta.

3. Cooking the mushrooms: Add the mushrooms to the pan and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Sauté over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. This step is essential for releasing the flavor of the mushrooms.

4. Adding the wine: Pour the wine into the pan and let it boil, stirring occasionally. The alcohol will evaporate, and the liquid will reduce. This is when the flavors concentrate.

5. Creating the sauce: Add the cream and finely chopped parsley. Mix well, and if the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water from the pasta cooking water.

6. Boiling the pasta: In a separate pot, boil water with a little salt and add the vermicelli. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 3-5 minutes. When ready, drain them well.

7. Finishing the dish: Add the vermicelli to the mushroom sauce, gently mixing to coat them evenly. Finally, add a tablespoon of grated parmesan and mix again.

8. Serving: Place the dish on plates and sprinkle the remaining parmesan on top. Serve warm and enjoy a delicious meal!

Practical Tips

- Wine-free option: If you prefer a wine-free alternative or don’t have any on hand, chicken or vegetable broth is an excellent substitute, providing a rich and savory taste.

- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or thyme to customize the sauce to your taste.

- Added proteins: You can also add chicken breast or shrimp to turn this dish into a heartier meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. Mushrooms are rich in vitamin D and antioxidants, while the cream adds a touch of creaminess. Vermicelli is an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. A serving contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of parmesan used.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use champignon or shiitake mushrooms, depending on your preferences.

- How much can I prepare in advance?
It is recommended to prepare the sauce and mushrooms, while the pasta should be cooked just before serving to maintain the perfect texture.

- What can this dish be paired with?
This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh green salad, lightly drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Personal Note

This recipe for vermicelli with mushrooms and parmesan brings back memories of moments spent in the kitchen with family, exploring flavors and textures. It is a dish that combines tradition with innovation, adding a personal touch to every meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Each step will be a culinary journey full of delicious discoveries. Enjoy your meal!