Mushroom stew in polenta crust (vegan)

The perfect dessert for those who love the combination of tradition and innovation! Polenta with mushroom stew in a crust - an economical, healthy, and flavorful recipe that will bring joy to every meal. This recipe is not only simple but also a true delight for the senses, bringing together the creamy texture of polenta and the rich flavors of mushrooms.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
For the polenta:
- 400 g cornmeal
- 1.5 l water
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the stew:
- 500 g champignon mushrooms
- 2 large tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 green onions
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- fresh parsley, for decoration

Recipe history:
Polenta, a staple food in many cultures, has often been associated with simple and comforting meals. Used as an alternative to bread, polenta has become a symbol of hospitality and comfort. In this recipe, polenta is not just a side dish but becomes the star of the meal, serving as a savory crust for the mushroom stew.

Preparing the polenta:
1. Start by placing a large pot with 1.5 liters of water over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of salt and wait for it to reach boiling point.
2. When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, continuously stirring with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming. It is important to add the cornmeal steadily to achieve a uniform consistency.
3. Let the polenta boil for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The desired consistency is soft, but not too liquid – it should be easy to mold.

Creating the crust:
4. Grease a tart pan with olive oil. This step is essential to prevent the polenta from sticking to the pan.
5. Once the polenta is ready, pour it into the prepared pan and press down well to mold it on the bottom and sides, creating an even crust. Let it cool slightly; it will become firmer as it cools.

Preparing the mushroom stew:
6. In the meantime, peel the tomatoes. A quick method is to dip them in boiling water for a few seconds, then transfer them to cold water – the skin will come off easily. Blend them with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until you get a smooth puree.
7. Clean the mushrooms and wash them well, then slice them thinly.
8. In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the mushrooms and sauté them until the water has completely evaporated. It is essential to sauté them well to obtain an intense flavor.
9. Add the chopped green onions and garlic, continuing to cook until the onion becomes translucent.
10. Incorporate the tomato puree, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the stew simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Assembling the dish:
11. Once the stew is ready, remove the polenta crust from the pan and place it on a serving platter.
12. Fill the crust with the mushroom stew, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and an appealing look.

Serving suggestions:
This dish can be served warm, alongside a fresh salad or pickles to add a note of acidity. A cup of white wine or lemonade is the perfect choice to accompany this main course.

Variations:
- You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as porcini or shiitake, for a different flavor.
- Instead of fresh tomatoes, you can use canned tomatoes for a quick alternative.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace cornmeal with another ingredient?
Polenta is a traditional ingredient, but you can try using oat flour or corn flour for a gluten-free version.

2. How long can the dish be kept?
It is recommended to consume the dish fresh, but you can store the stew in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

3. What other recipes can I try?
If you enjoy polenta, you can also try the recipe for polenta with cheese and sour cream, or polenta with olive sauce for a slightly different version.

This recipe for polenta with mushroom stew in a crust is not only a delicious choice, but it is also an excellent way to enjoy simple yet nutrient-rich ingredients. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it is sure to be appreciated by all. Happy cooking!