Mushroom stew

Mushroom stew is a delicious dish that emanates enticing aromas and is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a lunch with friends. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines juicy mushrooms with patiently cooked vegetables, offering a final result that will delight even the most discerning taste buds. Let's embark on this culinary adventure together!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg mushrooms (preferably champignon or oyster mushrooms)
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste (or tomato puree)
- 150 ml white wine (optional, for added flavor)
- 200 ml milk (to add creaminess)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- Spices: 1 chicken stock cube, vegeta, sweet paprika, thyme, pepper.

About mushrooms:
Mushrooms have been consumed for thousands of years, appreciated not only for their savory taste but also for their nutritional benefits. They are a good source of protein, vitamins (especially vitamin D), and minerals, with low caloric content. This mushroom stew is an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians but can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a healthy and comforting dish.

Step-by-step preparation of the mushroom stew:

1. Preparing the mushrooms:
Start by cleaning the mushrooms. It is important to remove the outer skins as they can be a bit tougher. After cleaning, wash them with cold water and slice them thinly. This step will help them cook evenly.

2. Boiling the mushrooms:
In a cauldron or large pot, add the mushroom slices, cover them with milk, and bring to a boil over medium heat. The milk will add a creamy texture and a delicate flavor.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
In a separate pan, add the olive oil and heat it. Add the finely chopped red onion and grated carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become golden and tender. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to your stew.

4. Adding the flavors:
When the mushrooms are almost cooked, add the chicken stock cube, vegeta, sweet paprika, thyme, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors.

5. Garlic sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed garlic with sour cream. Mix well to obtain a creamy garlic sauce that will add a punch to the stew.

6. Finalizing the dish:
Add the sautéed vegetables to the cauldron along with the garlic sauce. Mix everything well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Add the white wine and tomato paste, allowing it to boil for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld.

7. Serving:
The mushroom stew is served hot, topped with a spoonful of sour cream. You can accompany the dish with fresh bread or polenta, which pairs perfectly with the rich taste of the mushrooms.

Serving suggestions:
To add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top. Additionally, this stew pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine, which will perfectly complement the dish's flavors.

Possible variations:
If you want to explore different flavors, you can add other types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or porcini. You can also replace the white wine with red wine for a deeper flavor. A vegan version can be made by omitting the sour cream and using coconut milk or nut milk for a creamy consistency.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned mushrooms? Yes, but it is recommended to drain them well to avoid excess water in the stew.
- What kind of wine should I use? A dry white wine is ideal, but if you prefer red wine, it will add a distinctive flavor.
- Can I make the stew vegan? Absolutely! Replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and skip the chicken stock cube.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of mushroom stew has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used. This recipe is rich in fiber, vitamins (A, B, D), and essential minerals such as potassium and selenium. Consuming mushrooms can help support immune health and has antioxidant effects.

I wish you great success in preparing this mushroom stew! I look forward to hearing your impressions of its delicious taste and the wonderful moments spent around the table. Enjoy your meal!