Potato stew with mushrooms

Potato and Mushroom Stew – A Simple and Healthy Recipe

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

Welcome to the delicious world of cooking, where today I will teach you how to prepare a potato and mushroom stew, a simple dish that is full of flavor and health. This recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for those days when you want to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Let's discover together the steps and secrets of this stew!

A Brief History

Stew is a traditional dish found in many cultures, often associated with family meals, where simple ingredients transform into savory dishes. This potato and mushroom stew recipe is also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences.

Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes (preferably starchy for better texture)
- 400 g fresh mushrooms (champignon or any type you prefer)
- 1 bell pepper (you can choose between red, yellow, or green for extra color)
- 1 large onion (white or yellow onions are most suitable)
- 50 ml oil (sunflower oil or olive oil, as preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (enough to cover the potatoes)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Wash the potatoes well and peel them. Cut them into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. If you want to reduce cooking time, smaller cubes are ideal.
2. Peel the onion and bell pepper. Slice the onion into thin strips and dice the bell pepper. These will add a sweet taste and pleasant aroma to the stew.
3. Prepare the mushrooms. If they are large, slice them; if they are smaller, you can leave them whole.

Cooking the Stew

1. Heat the oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This is when the aroma will develop.
3. Add the bell pepper and mushrooms, continuing to sauté everything for 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms will release water, and the mixture will become more moist and aromatic.
4. Add the potatoes to the pot and mix well to combine all the ingredients. Let them sauté together for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Add enough water to cover the potatoes by about an inch. This step is essential for achieving a juicy stew.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other spices, such as paprika or herbs (oregano, basil), to give it an even richer flavor.
7. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and well-cooked. Check occasionally, stirring gently to prevent sticking.

Serving

Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve it hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or a green salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also add some chopped fresh parsley for a nicer appearance.

Useful Tips

- For an extra flavor boost, you can add a teaspoon of crushed garlic while sautéing the vegetables.
- Vary the ingredients! This stew pairs perfectly with carrots or zucchini, so feel free to experiment.
- If you prefer a vegan version, make sure the oil used is from plant sources.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 3 days. You can reheat the stew in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water if necessary.

Nutritional Information

This potato and mushroom stew is not only delicious but also healthy. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy, while mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals, with low calorie content. A serving of this stew contains approximately 250 calories, making it a good choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the stew be frozen?
Yes, the stew can be frozen! Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezing container.

2. Can I use canned mushrooms?
Yes, canned mushrooms can be used, but the result will be different in terms of texture. Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

3. How can I enhance the flavor?
Try adding some aromatic spices, such as cumin or curry, to give your stew a different taste.

Conclusion

The potato and mushroom stew is a simple, healthy, and extremely versatile recipe, perfect for a family meal or a quick dinner. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and experiment with your favorite ingredients. Perhaps one day, this recipe will become part of your culinary traditions. Bon appétit!