Mushroom stew with sour cream

Mushroom ciulama with sour cream - a comfort food recipe that brings the flavors of nature to your table. This delicious dish is perfect for a comforting dinner or a savory lunch. The origins of ciulama are deeply rooted in culinary tradition, and today, I will provide you with the necessary steps to create a simple yet tasty version with forest mushrooms.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g forest mushrooms (or champignon mushrooms if you don't have access to forest ones)
- 200 g sour cream
- 200 ml water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh if you prefer)
- 1 medium onion
- Salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the onion. Chop it finely and set it aside. If you're using fresh mushrooms, clean them with a damp cloth and cut them into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. This recipe allows for the use of forest mushrooms, but you can also opt for champignon mushrooms, which are easier to find.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a deep skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and lightly golden. This is when the flavors develop, and the onion will release its natural sweetness.

3. Adding the mushrooms: Once the onion is ready, add the chopped mushrooms. Mix well and let them sauté for 10 minutes. The mushrooms will release water, and the combination with the sautéed onion will create an excellent aromatic base. Season with salt to taste.

4. Boiling the mushrooms: After the mushrooms have reduced, add 200 ml of water. This step will help achieve a creamier texture for the ciulama. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to allow the ingredients to blend.

5. Preparing the sour cream sauce: In a small bowl, place the flour and gradually add the sour cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This sauce will thicken the ciulama and give it a delicious creaminess.

6. Combining the ingredients: After the 5 minutes of boiling, pour the sour cream and flour mixture over the mushrooms. Mix well to combine the composition. Let it come to a boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors.

7. Finalizing the dish: Finally, add the dried parsley (or fresh if you have it) and mix well. This is where you can give your ciulama a personal touch by adding a pinch of pepper or spices to taste.

8. Serving: Mushroom ciulama is usually served alongside warm polenta. The rich flavor of the mushrooms combined with the creamy texture of the sour cream sauce makes this main dish a perfect choice for any occasion. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a pleasant contrast.

Practical tips:
- If you want a thicker ciulama, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour to the sour cream mixture. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more water.
- You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add different flavors.
- Check that your mushrooms are fresh and blemish-free before using them. Fresh mushrooms add much better flavor compared to canned ones.

Nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: approximately 220 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned mushrooms? While fresh mushrooms offer superior flavor, you can use canned mushrooms, but make sure to drain them well before use.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a blonde beer are excellent choices that complement the flavors of the mushroom ciulama.
- Can I add other vegetables? Sure, you can add grated carrots or zucchini for an extra boost of nutrients and color.

This mushroom ciulama with sour cream recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!