Stew with fresh mushrooms

Mushroom Stew: A Delicacy Cooked with Love

Total Preparation Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 220 kcal (approximately)

Discover the joy of a mushroom stew, a simple and comforting recipe that combines the delicate flavors of fresh mushrooms with fresh vegetables. This stew is perfect for a light dinner or a hearty lunch, making it an excellent choice for those who love healthy food. Additionally, it is a vegetarian recipe, full of nutrients that will delight your taste buds.

Your ingredients for a delicious stew:

- 500 g fresh mushrooms (champignon, oyster, or any preferred type)
- 3 medium onions (350-400 g)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a touch of sweetness)
- 3-4 small tomatoes (or 2 large tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon of tomato paste
- 3-4 small broccoli florets (optional, for added color and nutrients)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil or other vegetable oil

Step by step for a perfect stew:

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by cleaning and washing the vegetables well. Slice the onion into thin strips (julienne) and the bell pepper into larger pieces. Set them aside and prepare the mushrooms, slicing them into medium-thick slices for even cooking.

2. Sauté the onion and bell pepper
In a deep pot, add the 4-5 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, stirring occasionally. After about a minute, add a tablespoon of water to help soften the vegetables. This step will enhance the flavors and prevent excessive browning. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Add the mushrooms
Once the water has evaporated, add the sliced mushrooms. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes. The mushrooms will release their water, and the flavors will combine, creating a delicious base for the stew.

4. Incorporate the tomatoes and tomato paste
After the mushrooms have cooked, add the sliced tomatoes and the tomato paste mixed with a little water. These ingredients will bring a pleasant acidity to the stew. Also, slice the garlic and add it to the pot.

5. Season and let simmer
Add salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, you can add dill or other preferred herbs. Let the stew simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you notice the dish becoming too dry, add a little water.

6. Finalize the dish
Finally, add the broccoli florets, stirring gently. They will add a crunchy texture and vibrant color. Cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but remains green and crisp.

7. Serve
Once the stew is ready, you can garnish it with chopped fresh parsley. Serve it warm, alongside a portion of basmati rice or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Useful Tips:

- Choose fresh mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms have a much more intense flavor compared to canned ones. Look for firm mushrooms without blemishes.
- Vegetable varieties: You can also add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini to diversify the texture and flavors. Experiment with your favorite vegetables!
- Parsley: If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can also use basil or thyme to add a different aromatic note.
- Variations: Add diced tofu or seitan to turn this recipe into a protein-rich main dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Yes, frozen mushrooms are an option, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the stew.

- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, all the ingredients are vegan, making it an excellent choice!

- What drinks pair well with this stew?
A glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade will perfectly complement the flavors.

A personal note:
This mushroom stew reminds me of evenings spent cooking together with family, where each ingredient was chosen carefully and every bite was savored with joy. I encourage you to cook with your heart and bring a bit of your memories into every plate. Enjoy your meal!