Mushroom stew

Mushroom Ciulama with Sour Cream – a delicious and comforting recipe

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

Looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe? Mushroom ciulama is the perfect choice! This traditional dish, enjoyed through generations, brings a touch of nostalgia to your table. It is an easy-to-make meal that combines mushrooms with creamy sour cream, offering an explosion of flavors. Here’s how to prepare it, step by step!

Ingredients you need

- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 100 ml sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more refined taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 600 g mushrooms (you can use champignon or wild mushrooms, depending on your preference)
- 250 ml sour cream (the fatty kind is ideal, kept in the fridge for a creamier texture)
- Spices of your choice (paprika, oregano, or dill for a more complex flavor)

Necessary utensils

- A cutting board and a knife for chopping
- A deep frying pan or pot
- A wooden spatula
- A serving spoon

The story behind the recipe

Mushroom ciulama is not just a dish; it is a true culinary story that reflects the gastronomic traditions of communities. This recipe has often been prepared in families, serving as a nourishing and comforting lunch. Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, rich in nutrients, and the sour cream adds a creaminess that makes the dish irresistible.

Preparing the Mushroom Ciulama

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by peeling the onions, then finely chop them. Make sure the mushrooms are well washed and sliced or cubed, depending on your preference. The smaller they are cut, the faster they will cook.

Step 2: Sautéing the onions

In a deep frying pan, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Properly sautéed onions will bring a sweet aroma to the ciulama.

Step 3: Adding the mushrooms

When the onion is ready, add the sliced mushrooms. Mix well and let them cook on low heat, stirring occasionally. It is important to let the mushrooms release their juice, and this process will take about 10 minutes. You will notice how the volume of the mushrooms decreases, and the aroma becomes more intense.

Step 4: Adding the sour cream

After the mushrooms have reduced, add the cold sour cream. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 5: Serving

Once the ciulama is ready, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. You can serve it with warm polenta, and for an extra touch of freshness, add some chopped parsley on top. This will add a color contrast and a fresh taste.

Useful tips

- If you want to give the ciulama an even more intense flavor, add some chopped garlic while sautéing the onions.
- You can experiment with various types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or pleurotus, which bring different flavors.
- For a vegetarian version, make sure to use soy sour cream or a plant-based alternative.

Frequently asked questions

1. What type of mushrooms can I use?
You can use any type of mushrooms, from common ones (champignon) to wild ones, depending on your preferences.

2. Can I add other ingredients?
Sure! You can include grated carrots, olives, or even some pieces of cooked chicken to diversify the recipe.

3. How can I store mushroom ciulama?
You can keep the ciulama in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat it on low heat before serving again.

Delicious combinations

Mushroom ciulama pairs wonderfully with warm polenta, but you can also serve it with fresh bread or mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, pair the ciulama with a simple green salad drizzled with lemon juice. A refreshing drink, such as mint tea, will perfectly complement this comforting meal.

Nutritional benefits

Mushrooms are an excellent source of vitamin D and antioxidants, and they are also low in calories, making them ideal for a balanced diet. The sour cream adds a boost of calcium, while the onion contains beneficial fiber for digestion.

In conclusion, mushroom ciulama is a dish that not only fills bellies but also brings a bit of warmth and comfort in every bite. I invite you to try this simple yet flavorful recipe and enjoy the moments spent in the kitchen. Bon appétit!