Mushroom stew

Mushroom Stroganoff with Sour Cream Recipe: A Vegetarian Delicacy

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Mushroom stroganoff is a comforting dish that brings an explosion of flavors and textures to our table. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds, but it is also a healthy choice, perfect for a light dinner or for days when you want to enjoy a vegetarian meal. Moreover, it is a simple, accessible recipe, ideal for beginners or for those looking for a quick dish.

A bit of history
Stroganoff is a traditional dish that has been appreciated over time in various cultures, being a way to make the most of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but it is clear that, regardless of local variations, stroganoff has always been a symbol of comfort and hospitality.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh mushrooms or 2 cans of mushrooms
- 2 medium onions
- 1-2 bell peppers
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 200 ml sour cream
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Oil (about 3-4 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning the mushrooms, removing any impurities. If you choose canned mushrooms, drain them well before use. Wash and chop the vegetables: finely chop the onion and dice the bell pepper. The garlic will be crushed or finely chopped.

2. Sautéing the onions
In a large skillet, add the oil and let it heat up. Add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. At this point, the aroma of the onion will fill the kitchen, setting the stage for the other ingredients.

3. Adding paprika and vegetables
Once the onion is sautéed, add the sweet paprika and mix well to release its flavors. Now, add the sliced mushrooms and chopped bell pepper, stirring constantly. It is important not to add water yet, as the vegetables will release enough moisture during cooking.

4. Boiling the vegetables
Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. After this interval, you can add a glass of water (about 200 ml) just to lightly cover the stroganoff. Add the tomato paste and mix again.

5. Adding the garlic
After 30-35 minutes of boiling, it is time to introduce the crushed garlic. This will add a subtle flavor and a delicious taste to the dish. Continue to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Preparing the sour cream sauce
In a small bowl, mix the flour with the sour cream. It is important to bring the sour cream to the temperature of the dish, so with a ladle, take some of the hot liquid and gradually add it to the sour cream mixture, stirring constantly. This will prevent lumps from forming.

7. Finishing the dish
Add the sour cream mixture to the skillet, gently stirring to combine the ingredients. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley.

8. Serving
Mushroom stroganoff is served warm, ideally alongside fluffy polenta. The polenta will add a rustic touch, making the meal even more flavorful. You can garnish with a few parsley leaves for a more attractive appearance.

Practical tips:
- If you are short on time, you can use canned mushrooms and frozen bell peppers, thus the dish will be ready in record time.
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add some additional spices, such as cayenne pepper or a pinch of nutmeg.
- If you want to turn this dish into a heartier meal, you can also add diced chicken or turkey before adding the mushrooms.

Nutrition and calories
This mushroom stroganoff is a healthy choice, rich in nutrients. Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. One serving (about 200 g) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of sour cream used. It is a filling meal, but with a reasonable calorie content, ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with zucchini, carrots, or even spinach, depending on your preferences.

- What drinks pair well with mushroom stroganoff?
A pale ale or a dry white wine pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the mushrooms.

- How can I store mushroom stroganoff?
You can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if necessary.

Possible variations:
- Mushroom stroganoff with cheese: Add cottage cheese or feta at the end for a richer taste.
- Spicy stroganoff: Add a finely chopped hot pepper for a kick of flavor.
- White sauce version: You can use milk instead of water for a creamier sauce.

Mushroom stroganoff is a versatile dish that can be adapted to everyone's tastes. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its flavors and textures, turning every meal into an unforgettable experience!