Mushroom stew

Delicious Mushroom Ciulama Recipe - a healthy and tasty choice for lunch

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

Discovering mushrooms is a culinary experience that delights the senses and brings a touch of nature to the lunch table. Mushroom ciulama is a traditional dish, rich in flavor and nutrients, that can easily be adapted to satisfy the most demanding tastes. With an appealing appearance and unmistakable aroma, this dish is ideal for a family meal or a gathering with friends.

The nutritional benefits of mushrooms are remarkable. They are rich in protein, B vitamins, minerals, and are very low in calories, making them a perfect ingredient for a healthy diet. Additionally, mushrooms contain no cholesterol, making them an excellent choice for those who need to pay attention to cardiovascular health.

Let's see how we can prepare a delicious mushroom ciulama, step by step!

Ingredients

- 1 kg champignon mushrooms (choose fresh, firm, and unblemished mushrooms)
- 100 g oil (or butter, if you prefer a richer taste)
- 1 large glass of milk (about 250 ml)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Garlic (2-3 cloves, crushed or finely chopped, according to preferences)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Polenta (optional, for serving)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by washing the mushrooms under a stream of cold water. Make sure to clean them well of dirt, but avoid leaving them in water for too long, as mushrooms absorb liquid. Slice the mushrooms thinly for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the mushrooms: In a large skillet or pot, add the oil (or butter) and let it heat over medium heat. Add the mushroom slices and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will release water and reduce in volume.

3. Heating and steaming: Once the mushrooms are sautéed, cover the pot with a lid and let them steam. Add a little water if necessary to prevent sticking. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Preparing the sauce: Once the mushrooms are well cooked, add the flour and mix well to avoid lumps. Then, gradually pour in the milk, continuing to stir. Add salt, pepper, and crushed garlic to taste. Keep cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

5. Finalizing the dish: Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, you can add a teaspoon of Fuchs seasoning for extra flavor, if desired.

6. Serving: Mushroom ciulama is delicious served with warm polenta, drizzled with sour cream. The polenta will perfectly complement the creamy texture of the ciulama and add a rich flavor.

Serving suggestions

For an even tastier meal, you can add some toasted croutons or fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an extra touch of freshness. A green salad on the side will also provide a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to enrich the dish. You can also replace the milk with cream for a richer and creamier version.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Of course! You can replace champignon mushrooms with porcini or shiitake mushrooms for a different flavor.

2. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add some finely chopped hot pepper or spices like paprika or chili, according to your preferences.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe by using oil instead of butter and plant-based milk (almond, soy, or coconut) instead of cow's milk.

4. How many calories are in a serving of mushroom ciulama?
A serving of mushroom ciulama contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Mushroom ciulama is not only a delicious dish but also an excellent way to bring a touch of nature into your diet. It is a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to your preferences and enjoyed with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!