Mushroom stew

Mushroom ciulama is a traditional dish, beloved by many, that revives culinary memories full of flavor. This simple and quick recipe combines textures and aromas, creating a comforting dish that will delight you. What is remarkable about ciulama is its versatility: you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish, accompanied by polenta or fried potatoes. Get ready to discover how to transform simple ingredients into something truly delicious!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g champignon mushrooms (fresh, preferably)
- 1 small onion
- 3 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower oil)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup of milk (you can use plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by washing the mushrooms well to remove any impurities. Then, slice them thinly, keeping in mind that they will significantly reduce in volume when cooked.

2. Onion and garlic: Peel the onion and garlic, then finely chop the onion and crush the garlic. These ingredients will add a delicious and aromatic flavor to your dish.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and releases its aroma.

4. Adding the mushrooms: Place the sliced mushrooms in the skillet, mixing well. Add half a cup of water to help cook the mushrooms. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. You will notice that the mushrooms will release water, forming a delicious base.

5. Preparing the sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve the flour in cold milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Pour the flour and milk mixture over the mushrooms, mixing well to combine the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Finalizing the dish: Let the ciulama simmer for 5-7 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Finally, add the finely chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Serving: Mushroom ciulama is delicious served hot, alongside steaming polenta or crispy fried potatoes. You can also add a fresh green salad for a contrast of textures.

Practical tips

- Choosing mushrooms: Opt for fresh and firm mushrooms for the best results. Avoid mushrooms that have spots or are soft.
- Flour: If you want a gluten-free version, you can replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Diverse flavors: You can experiment with different spices, adding, for example, a pinch of nutmeg or herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Parsley: Instead of parsley, you can use dill or fresh basil to give your dish a different aromatic profile.

Nutritional benefits

Mushroom ciulama is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially B), and minerals, while milk provides calcium. This dish is low in calories and high in fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned mushrooms? While it is recommended to use fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor, you can also use canned mushrooms. Just make sure to drain them well before use.
- What can I use instead of milk? You can use soy, almond, or oat milk to make this recipe vegan.
- Can mushroom ciulama be frozen? Yes, ciulama can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve its flavor and texture.

Delicious combinations

Mushroom ciulama pairs perfectly with creamy polenta or fried potatoes. You can also serve it alongside a glass of dry white wine or, for a non-alcoholic option, freshly squeezed lemonade.

A personal note

This mushroom ciulama recipe reminds me of the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who would tell me about the magical ingredients of nature. Each spoonful is a journey through time, full of warmth and love. I encourage you to bring a touch of your own story to each plate!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start cooking. May every meal be a celebration of flavors and the joy of cooking!