Hearty Mushroom Stew Recipe

Mushroom stew is a comforting and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a hearty main course or served over mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. This recipe offers an easy-to-follow guide to creating a flavorful and satisfying mushroom stew using common ingredients that many households already have on hand.

Ingredients

To prepare this Mushroom Stew, you will need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 large onion, diced fine
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 800g mushrooms (a mix of button and cremini), sliced
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped into small pieces
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 600ml beef or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cream (optional for a richer flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onions until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add the garlic and cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Once the onions are translucent, add in the mushrooms, carrots, and celery. Stir well and continue cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown slightly, about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add the tomato paste and bay leaf, stirring everything together to coat the vegetables evenly with the paste. Cook for another minute or two.

Step 5: Pour in the broth, increase heat to high, and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat immediately once boiling and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until all of the ingredients are tender and well integrated.

Step 6: Season with salt and pepper according to taste. If desired, stir in some cream just before serving to add richness and extra flavor.

Cooking Time & Servings

This Mushroom Stew takes approximately 30 minutes of active cooking time plus about 20 minutes for simmering, making it a straightforward and efficient meal. It serves four people generously.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

• Calories: per serving
• Total Fat:
• Saturated Fat:
• Cholesterol:
• Sodium:
• Total Carbohydrates:
• Fiber:
• Sugars:
• Protein:

Note: The nutritional values can vary based on the type of broth used and additional ingredients. For a healthier option, consider using vegetable broth instead of beef.

Tips for Success

1. Use variety in mushrooms: Mixing different types of mushrooms adds depth to the flavor profile.
2. Choose quality broth: The choice of broth can greatly influence the taste. Opt for a rich and flavorful one if possible.
3. Adjust seasoning: Taste before adding salt; many mushrooms are naturally umami, which can enhance your perception of saltiness.

Variations & Substitutions

This classic recipe allows for several creative variations. Here are a few suggestions:

• Add diced potatoes: For extra heartiness and a creamier texture, consider adding small, bite-sized chunks of potatoes.
• Incorporate fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used instead of dried ones for an aromatic twist.
• Use vegetable broth: This variation is perfect if you are following a vegetarian diet or simply prefer the flavor profile without meaty elements.

Mushroom stew provides not only delicious and comforting flavors but also flexibility in terms of ingredient selection, making it an ideal dish for various dietary preferences. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or preparing something special for yourself, this recipe offers a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the natural goodness of mushrooms.