Mushroom stew

Mushroom Ciulama

Mushroom ciulama is a traditional, simple, and delicious recipe, perfect for fasting days or for moments when you want to enjoy an easy-to-make meal that is full of flavor. This dish, with its creamy texture and rich taste, is an ideal choice for the whole family. I will guide you step by step through this culinary process, providing you with some tricks and useful tips to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh mushrooms
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil)
- 2 medium onions
- 3-4 green garlic stalks
- 1 teaspoon Maggi, the secret of vegetable flavor (optional)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2-3 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch
- 500 ml water
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the mushroom ciulama:

1. Cleaning the mushrooms:
Start by wiping the mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any impurities. It is important not to wash them under a strong stream of water, as mushrooms absorb water and will lose their flavor. Once cleaned, cut them into slices or large cubes for even cooking.

2. Boiling the mushrooms:
Place the mushrooms in a large pot with 500 ml of water and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil and let the mushrooms simmer for 15-20 minutes. This step helps to intensify the flavors and soften the mushrooms. After boiling, strain them and let them cool slightly.

3. Chopping the mushrooms:
Once the mushrooms have cooled, chop them finely. You can use a food processor to achieve a fine paste or chop them finely with a knife, depending on your preference. The final texture will influence the creaminess of the ciulama, so make sure to achieve the desired consistency.

4. Sautéing the onion:
In a large skillet, heat the oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and starts to brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential for adding sweetness and depth to the ciulama.

5. Adding the mushrooms:
After the onion has sautéed, add the chopped mushrooms and mix well. Let the mixture cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. If desired, add the teaspoon of Maggi now for an extra flavor boost.

6. Preparing the sauce:
In a separate bowl, dissolve the flour or cornstarch in 500 ml of warm water, mixing well to avoid lumps. Pour the flour mixture over the mushrooms and onion, stirring continuously to achieve a homogeneous consistency. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes creamy and has a texture similar to sour cream. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect ciulama.

7. Adding the garlic:
Finely chop the green garlic and add it to the ciulama. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring gently. The garlic adds an unmistakable flavor and enhances the dish.

8. Adjusting the taste:
In the end, taste the ciulama and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A great idea is to add a little freshly chopped dill for an extra flavor.

9. Serving:
Mushroom ciulama is served hot, alongside a generous serving of polenta. This combination is not only traditional but also incredibly tasty. You can also add a fresh green salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor; champignon or forest mushrooms are excellent.
- Flour can be replaced with cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
- If you want to add a spicy note, you can include a finely chopped chili pepper during the sautéing of the onion.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat them the next day; the ciulama becomes even tastier as the flavors develop.

Nutritional benefits:
Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based protein, vitamins (especially B2, B3, and D), and minerals (such as selenium and potassium). They are also low in calories, making mushroom ciulama a healthy choice for a main meal. A serving of ciulama contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and flour used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned mushrooms?
We do not recommend using canned mushrooms, as the texture and flavor will not be the same as with fresh mushrooms.

2. How can I adapt this recipe for a vegan diet?
The recipe is already vegan, but make sure to use a cooking oil and do not add animal-derived ingredients.

3. What other side dishes can I serve with mushroom ciulama?
Besides polenta, ciulama pairs excellently with rice or mashed potatoes.

This mushroom ciulama recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a true culinary delight! Experiment with the ingredients, add your favorite spices, and turn each serving into a unique experience. Enjoy every bite and relish the natural flavors of the mushrooms!