Mushroom stew

Canned Mushroom Ciulama Recipe: A Quick and Satisfying Delight

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Who hasn’t gone through moments when they don’t know what to cook? Or maybe the fridge is nearly empty? Well, today I’m going to share with you a simple yet incredibly delicious recipe: canned mushroom ciulama. This recipe is not only quick but also full of flavor, perfect for a cozy family meal. Mushroom ciulama is a classic dish that evokes warm meals and the joy of cooking at home.

Necessary Ingredients:
- 2 cans of mushrooms (420 g net)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 tablespoons of sunflower or olive oil
- 1 level tablespoon of flour (optional)
- 6 tablespoons of sour cream
- 50 ml of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 cloves of garlic

Helpful Tips for Ingredients:
- Choose quality canned mushrooms, free from unnecessary additives. Champignon mushrooms are the most common, but you can also experiment with mixed mushrooms to add diversity in texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a healthier version, you can omit the flour and use only sour cream for a creamier yet equally delicious ciulama.
- Milk can be replaced with a richer sour cream for an even more indulgent taste.

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the mushrooms:
Drain the water from the canned mushrooms and place them in a sieve. Rinse them under cold running water to remove excess preservatives and restore a fresh texture. This step is essential for enhancing the final taste of the dish.

2. Sautéing the onion:
In a pan, heat the 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the peeled and finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and slightly golden (about 3-4 minutes). This step will add a special flavor to your ciulama.

3. Adding the mushrooms:
Place the mushrooms in the pan and mix well. Let them cook over low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the water released by the mushrooms evaporates completely. This is the perfect time to add the crushed or minced garlic to intensify the flavors.

4. Preparing the sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix the flour (if you choose to use it) with the sour cream and milk, gradually adding the sour cream to avoid lumps. Make sure the mixture is smooth and creamy.

5. Finalizing the ciulama:
Pour the sour cream and milk mixture over the mushrooms, stirring constantly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the ciulama simmer on low heat for another 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly and combine the flavors.

6. Serving:
Once the ciulama is ready, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the warm mushroom ciulama alongside polenta, rice, or fresh bread. It is not only a comforting dish but also ideal for enjoying on cool autumn or winter days.

Variations and Suggestions:
- You can add some freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra splash of color and freshness.
- Instead of garlic, you can use herbs like thyme or dill to provide a different taste.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add some slices of bell pepper or carrot to enrich the texture and nutrition of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is mushroom ciulama a vegetarian dish? Yes, it is 100% vegetarian, but make sure the sour cream and oil used are plant-based.
- Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned? Absolutely! If you choose fresh mushrooms, you will need to cook them a bit longer until they become tender.
- How long does ciulama last? It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Nutritional Benefits:
Mushroom ciulama is not only tasty but also rich in nutrients. Mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, minerals like selenium, and antioxidants that contribute to strengthening the immune system. Additionally, sour cream provides a dose of calcium and protein, essential for bone health.

With this simple canned mushroom ciulama recipe, you will always have a delicious and quick solution for your meals. Try personalizing it to your taste, and your family will be delighted with this comforting dish. Remember, cooking is an art, and every meal you prepare is an opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table!