Dew Mushroom Stew with Polenta

Mushroom Stew with Polenta

If you are looking for a recipe that combines the authentic taste of nature with a touch of tradition, mushroom stew with polenta is the perfect choice. This dish will not only delight your taste buds but also bring back pleasant memories of spring and summer spent on the green grass, amidst the forests.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Your ingredients for a delicious stew are:

- 500 g mushrooms (dew mushrooms)
- 3 green onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 tomato
- 2 green garlic cloves
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- sour cream (optional)

About dew mushrooms

Dew mushrooms (Marasmius oreades) are a true treasure of nature. These mushrooms grow in large groups on sunny meadows and pastures and have a thin, conical cap that later becomes flat. Their taste is often compared to that of chicken, making them a perfect choice for a savory stew. Additionally, they are rich in nutrients, having a high content of proteins and vitamins, making them a healthy choice for those who love cooking with natural ingredients.

Preparing the stew

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning all the vegetables. Wash the mushrooms well, remove any impurities, and cut them into smaller pieces, but not too fine. Slice the green onions, dice the bell pepper, and you can cut the tomato into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Mince the garlic.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the green onions and bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. This step will help release the flavors of the vegetables and create a tasty base for the stew.

3. Adding the mushrooms: Now is the time to add the dew mushrooms. Mix well and let them sauté together with the other vegetables for 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms will start to release their juices, and the aroma will be irresistible.

4. Seasoning: Add the tomato, garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything well. If desired, you can add a little water to assist with cooking. Cover the pan with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the mushrooms to cook evenly and the flavors to blend.

5. Finishing the dish: Once the mushrooms are cooked and have absorbed the flavors of the vegetables, you can add sour cream if you want a creamier texture. Mix well and let the stew cook for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley, which will add a touch of freshness and color.

Cooking the polenta

Meanwhile, you can prepare the polenta, a perfect traditional accompaniment for this stew. To make polenta:

1. In a pot, add 1 liter of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.
2. When the water is boiling, gradually add 250 g of cornmeal, stirring continuously with a whisk to avoid lumps.
3. Cook the polenta on low heat, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes until it becomes firm and pulls away from the sides of the pot.

Serving the dew mushroom stew

To serve this delight, place a portion of polenta on a plate and pour the mushroom stew on top. You can garnish with a little fresh parsley for a more attractive appearance. This combination not only looks wonderful but also tastes divine.

Suggestions and variations

If you want to personalize the recipe, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, which pair perfectly with mushrooms. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or basil to add a different flavor note.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of mushrooms? Yes, you can replace dew mushrooms with other edible mushrooms, such as champignon or porcini, but the taste will be different.
- Is this recipe healthy? Yes, mushroom stew is a nutritious option, rich in vitamins and minerals, and polenta adds complex carbohydrates, providing a balanced meal.
- What drinks pair well with it? I recommend a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the stew.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of mushroom stew with polenta contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used. This is a protein-rich meal, thanks to the mushrooms, and contains fiber from the vegetables and polenta, making it a healthy and filling choice.

It's time to enjoy the flavors of this mushroom stew with polenta. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will bring a smile to everyone's face. Enjoy your meal!