Oyster mushroom stew with chickpeas

Pleurotus Stew with Chickpeas: A Flavorful Plant-Based Delight

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

Who doesn't love a hearty stew full of vibrant flavors and colors? This pleurotus stew with chickpeas is not only a delicious dish but also a very healthy option, perfect for vegans and vegetarians. Pleurotus, also known as oyster mushroom, offers a fine texture and delicate taste, while chickpeas add essential proteins and creaminess. Together, these ingredients transform into a comforting meal, perfect for a family evening or a dinner with friends.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg fresh pleurotus mushrooms
- 1 large onion, dried
- 1 carrot
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 can diced tomatoes (400 g)
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (approximately 240 g)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- a few sprigs of fresh dill
- olive oil, to taste
- salt, to taste
- chili (optional), to taste

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

The first step in preparing this delicious stew is to gather all the ingredients. Wash and clean the pleurotus mushrooms well from any impurities. You can use a soft brush or a damp towel to clean them. Then, roughly chop them into pieces.

Prepare the vegetables: chop the onion into small cubes, grate the carrot, and crush the garlic clove, then chop it finely. These aromatic vegetables will form the base of your stew.

Step 2: Cooking the vegetables

In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil. An excellent choice is to use extra virgin olive oil, which will add a rich flavor to your dish. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt, letting it sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent.

Then, incorporate the grated carrot and chopped garlic. Let them sizzle for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a pinch of chili at this stage will give a kick to the dish, but you can adjust the amount according to your preferences.

Step 3: Adding the mushrooms

When the vegetables have started to soften, it's time to add the pleurotus mushrooms. Here’s the secret: use high heat to sauté them. This will help release the flavors and provide a more interesting texture to the entire stew. Let the mushrooms brown for a few minutes until they start to release water and turn slightly golden.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients

Once the mushrooms are ready, add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste diluted with a little water, and another pinch of salt. This mixture will add a rich and uniform flavor to the sauce. Then add the cooked chickpeas, which will contribute to the creaminess and a feeling of fullness.

Mix everything well and let the stew simmer on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Finishing and serving

When all the ingredients are perfectly integrated, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh dill. This will add a fresh taste and complement the flavors of the stew. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it rest for a few minutes so the flavors intensify.

Serve the stew hot, sprinkled with a pinch of chili if you like a bit of spice. It pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread or a portion of basmati rice for a complete meal.

Practical tips

- If you can't find pleurotus mushrooms, you can use champignon or shiitake mushrooms, but the taste will vary.
- Chickpeas can be replaced with lentils or beans if you prefer. These legumes are an excellent source of plant-based proteins.
- Experiment with other herbs like parsley or basil for a different flavor.
- This stew keeps excellently in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated, making it ideal for meal prep.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, that’s perfect! Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before use.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making this stew an excellent choice for vegans.

3. How can I enhance this dish?
Add a few slices of bell pepper or even zucchini for a variety of textures and flavors.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to start cooking! This pleurotus stew with chickpeas will surely add a burst of flavor to your menu and delight the taste buds of everyone who enjoys it. Enjoy every moment of cooking and remember that every recipe has a story to tell!