Mushroom goulash - fasting

Mushroom Goulash – a Flavorful Vegan Recipe

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

In a world full of flavors and textures, mushroom goulash is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious yet healthy dish. This recipe is inspired by ancient culinary traditions, where mushrooms were used as the main ingredient to create comforting and flavorful meals. Our mushroom goulash is a vegan variant, easy to prepare and perfect for any meal, whether it's a family lunch or a dinner with friends.

Ingredients

- 500 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or forest mushrooms)
- 1 medium potato
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 red chili (optional, for a touch of spice)
- 3 fresh tomatoes (or 400 g canned tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon pepper paste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt to taste
- 150 ml sunflower oil (or olive oil)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Necessary utensils

- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large pan or cauldron
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A pot for boiling

Step by Step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the mushrooms well under cold running water. Slice them thinly, and you can leave the smaller ones whole for a rustic look. Peel the onion, potato, and bell pepper, then chop the onion finely, cube the potato, and slice the bell pepper. If you want a spicier taste, slice the chili into rings.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
Heat the oil in a large pan or cauldron over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the bell pepper and chili (if using) and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.

3. Adding the mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their water and become tender, about 5-7 minutes. At this point, the mushrooms will add a rich umami flavor to the dish.

4. Seasoning
Sprinkle salt, sweet paprika, and pepper paste over the vegetable and mushroom mixture. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the spices.

5. Thickening the sauce
In a small bowl, dissolve the flour in a few tablespoons of cold water, mixing well to avoid lumps. Add the flour mixture to the pan, stirring continuously. This step will help thicken the sauce and add a creamy texture to the goulash.

6. Boiling
Add the cubed potatoes and 3 chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pan. Pour enough water to cover the ingredients (about 300-400 ml) and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. Check occasionally and add water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

7. Serving
When the potatoes are cooked and the goulash has thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and flavor. This mushroom goulash pairs perfectly with a serving of warm polenta, which will wonderfully complement the dish's taste.

Chef's Tip
For a more intense flavor, you can add some shiitake or portobello mushrooms alongside the champignon mushrooms. Also, if you enjoy a smoky flavor, add a bit of smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika.

Nutritional Benefits
This mushroom goulash recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, vitamins B and D, and the vegetables provide a significant amount of fiber and minerals. Additionally, this recipe is entirely vegan, offering an excellent alternative for those looking to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Yes, frozen mushrooms are a viable option, but we recommend using fresh mushrooms for a better taste.

2. What other sides can I use?
Besides polenta, you can serve this goulash with fresh bread or rice for a complete meal.

3. How can I adapt the recipe to make it spicier?
Adding more chili peppers or a tablespoon of chili sauce will intensify the flavor and add extra heat.

Conclusion
Mushroom goulash is a versatile dish, full of taste and texture, perfect for any occasion. It will surely become a favorite in your home, and its combination of healthy ingredients makes this recipe an excellent choice for anyone who appreciates good food. I invite you to try it and share your culinary experience! Enjoy!