Mushrooms with polenta

Recipe for Porcini Mushrooms with Polenta: A Romanian Delicacy

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I present to you a simple and flavorful recipe that combines the forest's aromas with Romanian tradition. Porcini mushrooms with polenta is a perfect choice for a quick dinner, but also for moments when you want to impress someone special. It's comfort food that evokes pleasant memories and a sense of well-being.

A Short Story

Porcini mushrooms, the "golden" treasures of the forest, have been appreciated for centuries for their rich flavor and pleasant texture. This recipe is a simplified version of traditional dishes, combining mushrooms with creamy polenta, paying homage to local and seasonal ingredients. Polenta, a staple in many regions, is versatile and delicious, making it perfect to accompany various sauces or side dishes.

Ingredients

- 400 g porcini mushrooms (you can use fresh or frozen, but fresh is ideal)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (choose the freshest for an intense flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (for a richer taste, you can use sunflower oil)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped (to add freshness)
- 250 g cornmeal (for polenta)
- 1 liter of water (for boiling the polenta)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Porcini: Start by cleaning the porcini mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove dirt. Cut them into cubes of about 1-2 cm for even cooking.

2. Cooking the Porcini: In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic (you can adjust the amount to your liking) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden, being careful not to burn it. Then, add the chopped porcini. Stir gently to prevent sticking.

3. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking the porcini for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, add the chopped fresh dill and mix well. The aroma will intensify and add a touch of freshness to the dish.

4. Preparing the Polenta: In a pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil. When the water starts boiling, add a pinch of salt and gradually the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. This will prevent lumps from forming. Cook the polenta on low heat for about 10-15 minutes until creamy and pulling away from the sides of the pot.

5. Serving: On a plate, place a generous layer of polenta and top with the sautéed porcini. If you like, you can add a garlic sauce (made from crushed garlic with water and salt), which will give an intense and savory flavor to the dish.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Ingredients: Use fresh porcini when in season, as their flavor is unmatched. If fresh porcini are not available, you can also use other mushrooms like champignon or shiitake to vary the taste.

- Spices: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or thyme to customize the recipe to your preferences.

- Polenta Texture: If you prefer a softer polenta, add more water, and for firmer polenta, reduce the amount of water.

- Variations: You can add cheese on top of the polenta for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen porcini? Yes, it's an excellent option, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

- What should I serve alongside this dish? A green salad with tomatoes or cucumbers can add a fresh touch. Also, a glass of dry white wine is perfect to complete the meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Porcini mushrooms are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a healthy choice for a balanced meal. Polenta provides complex carbohydrates, essential for energy.

Calories

A serving of this recipe contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for porcini mushrooms with polenta! It's an excellent way to bring the flavors of nature into your kitchen. I would love to hear how it turned out for you; feel free to share your impressions! Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create delicious memories. Enjoy your meal!