Mushroom and Pea Stew

Delicious Mushroom and Pea Stew – Simple and Quick Vegan Recipe

If you're looking for a vegan recipe that will delight your taste buds, mushroom and pea stew is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only tasty but also very easy to prepare, making it quick with accessible ingredients. The origins of this simple dish can be found in culinary traditions, where mushrooms perfectly combine with seasonal vegetables to create a nutritious and comforting meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g fresh mushrooms (preferably champignon or porcini)
- 1 can of peas (about 400 g)
- 4-5 medium onions (preferably white or yellow)
- 200 g tomato paste (or puree)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped

Step by step for a perfect stew:

1. Wash the mushrooms: Start by washing the mushrooms well under cold running water. Make sure to clean them of impurities, as mushrooms can accumulate dirt. Let them drain in a colander or on a kitchen towel to remove excess water.

2. Prepare the mushrooms: Once drained, chop the mushrooms into small cubes. Uniform size will ensure even cooking and add a pleasant texture to the stew.

3. Wash the peas: If using canned peas, rinse them under cold water to remove excess sodium. Let them drain well so they don’t dilute the sauce.

4. Prepare the onion: Peel and finely chop the onions. They will add a sweet flavor to the dish, so don’t hesitate to chop them as finely as possible.

5. Sauté the onion: In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes slightly golden but not too brown, to preserve its sweetness.

6. Add the mushrooms: Once the onion is ready, add the mushroom cubes. Mix well and let them cook until they start to release their juices. This step is crucial as the mushrooms will add flavor and moisture to the stew.

7. Incorporate the peas: After the mushrooms have started to brown, add the drained peas, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let the ingredients simmer together for about 5-7 minutes.

8. Finalizing the dish: Finally, add the tomato paste and gently stir to combine all the ingredients. You can adjust the amount of tomato paste depending on how saucy you want your stew to be. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, then add the chopped parsley and dill. These fresh herbs will add a touch of freshness and flavor.

9. Serving: Serve the stew hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. This combination will turn your meal into a true feast for the senses!

Practical tips and variations:

- Choose varied mushrooms: Although champignon mushrooms are the most common, you can try adding shiitake or porcini mushrooms for a deeper flavor.
- Additional spices: You can experiment with spices like sweet paprika, thyme, or oregano to add extra flavor to your stew.
- Add vegetables: If you want to enrich the dish, you can add grated carrots or diced bell peppers.
- For a crunchy texture: You can sprinkle roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds on top before serving.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen mushrooms? Yes, frozen mushrooms can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the stew.
2. How can I make the stew spicier? Add chili flakes or chili sauce during cooking for an extra kick.
3. Is this recipe vegetarian? Yes, mushroom and pea stew is perfect for vegans and vegetarians, being an excellent source of plant-based protein.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This stew is a healthy option, rich in fiber due to the vegetables, and contains about 200 calories per serving. Mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants, and peas provide essential vitamins and minerals. It is a filling meal that will give you energy throughout the day.

In conclusion, mushroom and pea stew is a versatile, quick, and delicious recipe, perfect for days when you want to enjoy a healthy meal. Explore variations of this recipe and transform it as you develop your own culinary style. Enjoy your meal!