Chanterelle stew

Mushroom Stew

A recipe full of flavor, mushroom stew is a delicacy that brings together the rich flavors of the forest with delicate textures. This dish is perfect as a side for fish, meat, or even as a filling for aromatic rice. Whether you're passionate about cooking or simply want to try something new, this recipe will surely delight you. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh mushrooms
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 tomato
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar (optional)

A brief story about mushrooms

Mushrooms are fungi that often grow in forests and are appreciated for their unique texture and delicate flavor. Since ancient times, people have begun to gather them and use them in various dishes, both for their nutritional value and for the special aroma they bring to meals. This simple recipe for mushroom stew highlights the beauty of these mushrooms, giving them the rightful place on your table.

Step by step for a perfect stew

Step 1: Preparing the mushrooms

1. Washing the mushrooms: Start by washing the mushrooms well in cold water. This step is crucial as mushrooms can have impurities or sand. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly.
2. Boiling the mushrooms: Place the mushrooms in a pot of water, add 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar and a little salt. Boil them for about 30 minutes until they become tender. The vinegar helps maintain their color and texture.
3. Draining and rinsing: After boiling, remove the mushrooms from the water and let them drain well. Rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables

1. Cleaning and chopping the vegetables: While the mushrooms are boiling, you can take care of the vegetables. Peel the two carrots, the onions, the red bell pepper, and the garlic. Cut the carrots into rounds, the onions into small cubes, the bell pepper into strips, and finely chop the garlic.
2. Tomato: Cut the tomato into cubes. This ingredient will add a splash of freshness and a slightly sweet taste to the dish.

Step 3: Cooking the vegetables

1. Heating the oil: In a large skillet, add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat.
2. Sautéing the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Adding the mushrooms: Once the vegetables have started to soften, add the drained mushrooms and mix well.
4. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste, then add the chopped tomato. Mix everything well.
5. Boiling: Add a glass of water and let it boil until the liquid evaporates, and the dish becomes thicker, about 10-15 minutes.

Serving

Mushroom stew is a versatile side dish and can be served alongside grilled fish, chicken, or pork, but it also pairs perfectly with plain rice or pilaf. You can garnish it with a little chopped fresh parsley for a more attractive appearance.

Practical tips

- Vegan option: You can skip the meat and use the stew as a main dish, served with a fresh green salad.
- Frozen mushrooms: If you don't have fresh mushrooms, you can use frozen ones. Make sure to fully thaw them before adding them to the skillet.
- Optional additions: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or other mushrooms. Also, a splash of lemon juice at the end can add a note of freshness.

Nutritional values

Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant protein and contain B vitamins, which help maintain metabolism and energy. They are also low in calories, making mushroom stew an excellent choice for those looking to control their weight.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dried mushrooms? Yes, but you will need to rehydrate them before use. Soaking them in warm water for about 30 minutes will bring them back to life.

2. What other spices can I use? You can add herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra flavor boost.

3. How can I turn this recipe into a sauce? You can add sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end to create a creamy sauce, ideal for pasta or as a filling for pancakes.

Mushroom stew is a simple yet flavorful recipe. I encourage you to put your personal touch on it by experimenting with ingredients and flavors you enjoy. Enjoy your meal!