Mushroom stew with vegetables

Mushroom ciulama with vegetables - a delicious, comforting, and aromatic recipe! This classic dish is a perfect choice for a family meal or a relaxed weekend dinner. With a mix of juicy mushrooms, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, the ciulama becomes a true feast for the senses. Let's discover together how to prepare this recipe step by step.

Total time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 can of mushrooms (approximately 400 g)
- 2 medium ripe and juicy tomatoes
- 3 bell peppers (you can use a combination of colors for a vibrant look)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of sour cream (for a creamy and rich sauce)
- 2 tablespoons of flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 250 ml)
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of Delicat or other preferred seasoning

Necessary utensils:
- A large skillet or wok
- A wooden spatula
- A small bowl for mixing the sour cream with the flour
- A knife and a cutting board for chopping the vegetables

Step by step for a perfect mushroom ciulama:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, dice the tomatoes, and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. If using canned mushrooms, make sure to drain them well.

2. Heating the oil:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil. The oil should be hot before adding the vegetables.

3. Sautéing the onion and mushrooms:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the mushrooms and continue to cook for another 7-10 minutes. This step is essential for bringing the flavors to life.

4. Adding the vegetables:
Once the onion and mushrooms are ready, add the diced tomatoes and sliced bell peppers. Mix well and let everything sauté over medium heat for about 4 minutes until the tomatoes start releasing their juice.

5. Preparing the sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the flour. This mixture will thicken the sauce and give it a creamy texture. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

6. Combining the ingredients:
Pour the sour cream and milk mixture over the vegetables and mushrooms in the skillet. Mix well, then add the chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and Delicat to taste. Let everything simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are well cooked.

7. Serving:
The mushroom ciulama with vegetables is ready! Serve this wonderful dish alongside warm polenta and pickled cucumbers. The combination of mushroom flavors with creamy polenta is simply divine!

Practical tips:
- Mushrooms: If you want a more intense flavor, you can use fresh mushrooms instead of canned ones. Choose champignon or oyster mushrooms for a richer taste.
- Vegetarian option: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add tofu or tempeh for an extra protein boost.
- Spices: Instead of Delicat, you can use various dried herbs like oregano or basil to add a fresh note.
- Serving: You can top it with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves for a more elegant look.

Nutritional benefits:
This mushroom ciulama is packed with nutrients! Mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, vitamin D, and antioxidants, while the vegetables provide important vitamins and fiber. The polenta served alongside offers complex carbohydrates that will give you long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can add carrots or zucchini for an extra splash of color and nutrients.
- How can I make this recipe spicier? Add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes during cooking, according to your taste.
- How long does it keep in the fridge? The ciulama keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on low heat with a splash of milk.

So, don't hesitate to try this simple and tasty mushroom ciulama with vegetables recipe! It's an excellent choice for those looking for a quick yet flavorful meal. Enjoy your meal!