Mushroom food

Mushroom Dish with Polenta

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Mushroom dish is a savory preparation, full of flavors, reminiscent of traditional, simple, and delicious meals. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also healthy. Mushrooms are rich in nutrients, and the combination with creamy polenta makes this dish an excellent choice for a comforting meal, perfect for any season. Additionally, polenta is an ideal accompaniment, providing a pleasant texture and complementary flavor.

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh mushrooms (champignon or wild mushrooms)
- 3-4 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- 2 tablespoons of broth (preferably natural tomato broth)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Water (enough to cover the vegetables)

Useful tips for ingredients

- Mushrooms: Choose fresh mushrooms, without spots or signs of spoilage. If using wild mushrooms, ensure they are edible and well cleaned.
- Onion: Onions cook faster and become sweet when cooked. If you want a more intense flavor, opt for red onions.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots will add a sweet taste and vibrant color to the dish. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, if desired.
- Broth: Using natural broth will enrich the flavor of the dish. You can replace the broth with tomato paste if you prefer a stronger taste.

Preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by cleaning the mushrooms, onions, and carrots. Slice the mushrooms thinly, chop the onions, and cut the carrots into rounds. These cuts will help with even and quick cooking.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add the chopped onions and carrots. Pour enough water to cover the vegetables, but don’t overdo it – you don’t want to make a soup. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the carrots become soft.

3. Adding the mushrooms: After 20 minutes, add the mushrooms to the pot. Stir well to combine the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes.

4. Finishing the dish: Once the mushrooms have softened, add the two tablespoons of broth. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the carrots are tender and a fork easily goes through them, it’s time to turn off the heat.

5. Preparing the polenta: While the mushroom dish is cooking, you can prepare the polenta. Use about 250 g of cornmeal to achieve a creamy polenta. Boil water (about 1 liter) with salt, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes until the polenta becomes thick and creamy.

Serving suggestions

Serve the mushroom dish hot, alongside the polenta. You can add some fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or pickles, adding a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Possible variations

- Adding meat: If you want to turn this recipe into a heartier dish, you can add pieces of chicken or pork, which you can sauté with the onions before adding the carrots.
- Vegan dish: This recipe is already vegan, but you can replace the broth with soy sauce for a more pronounced umami flavor.
- Spices and herbs: Experiment with herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary to add an extra note of flavor.

Nutritional benefits

Mushroom dish is an excellent source of plant-based protein, vitamins (especially B), and minerals. Mushrooms are low in calories, high in fiber, helping to maintain digestive health. Polenta, on the other hand, provides complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned mushrooms?
Yes, however, fresh mushrooms are always preferable for better texture and taste. If using canned mushrooms, reduce the cooking time.

2. How can I store the mushroom dish?
It stores well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a craft beer can perfectly complement the flavors of the mushroom dish. Additionally, an herbal tea can add a note of freshness.

Conclusion

This recipe for mushroom dish with polenta is not only simple to prepare but also full of flavor and nutrients. It’s perfect for family meals or for a relaxing evening at home. Experiment with the ingredients and spices to customize it to your taste! Start cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!