Mushroom Chili Stew

Mushroom Chili Stew Recipe - Vegetarian Chili with Three Kinds of Mushrooms

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Mushroom Chili Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the spicy kick of chili powder, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Chili stew has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. The combination of beans, spices, and vegetables has been a staple in many diets around the world. This particular recipe adds a twist by incorporating a variety of mushrooms, adding a rich and savory depth of flavor.

Ingredients

2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp dried oregano
14 oz (397 g) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
1 tbsp tomato paste
15 oz (425 g) can navy beans, rinsed and drained
15 oz (425 g) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 scallion (white and light green part), cut into 0.5 inch pieces
cilantro for garnish
0.5 lb (227 g) cremini mushrooms
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium portobello mushroom, stem removed
0.5 lb (227 g) fresh shiitake mushrooms, stems removed

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened, about 5 minutes.
In a food processor, combine all mushrooms and process until coarsely chopped. (You should have about 5 cups).
Add mushrooms, chili powder, cumin, and oregano to the saucepan and cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms have released their juices, about 5 minutes.
Add tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, vinegar, and 1 cup of water to the mushrooms.
Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until the mixture has reached the desired thickness, about 10 minutes.
Stir in scallions and adjust salt to taste.
Serve sprinkled with cilantro.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra color and sweetness.
Swap out the navy beans for black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or button mushrooms, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to properly rinse and drain the canned beans to remove excess sodium.

- Use a variety of mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Mushroom Chili Stew with a side of warm cornbread or over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal. Top with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for added richness.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the mushrooms until they release their juices to enhance their flavor.

- Simmer the stew uncovered to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

- Substitute the balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

This Mushroom Chili Stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Mushroom Chili Stew with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation. Serve in individual bowls for a cozy and inviting meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Mushroom Chili Stew with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A glass of red wine or a cold beer would also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the Mushroom Chili Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 45g

Dietary Fiber: 12g

Sugar: 5g

Fats

Total Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 12g

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 3mg

Calcium: 100mg

Vitamin C: 10mg

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This Mushroom Chili Stew is a nutritious and balanced meal, packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and satisfying dish.

Summary

Mushroom Chili Stew is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this stew is a satisfying option for a cozy night in. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of mushrooms and spices in every bite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Mushroom Chili Stew. It was a cold and rainy day in the fall, and I was feeling a bit under the weather. As I rummaged through my pantry looking for ingredients to make a comforting meal, I came across a weathered old cookbook that I had inherited from my grandmother. Flipping through the pages, a recipe caught my eye - Mushroom Chili Stew.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of mushrooms and chili intrigued me. I remembered my grandmother telling me stories of how she would travel the world, collecting recipes and cooking techniques from various places and people. Perhaps this recipe was one of her finds.

Excited to try something new, I gathered the ingredients and got to work. As I chopped the onions and garlic, the savory aroma filled the kitchen, warming me from the inside out. I sautéed the mushrooms until they were golden brown, their earthy flavor mingling with the spicy chili powder and cumin.

As the stew simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but think of my grandmother and the adventurous spirit she had instilled in me. She had always encouraged me to try new things, to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the unknown. And here I was, creating a dish that I had never even heard of before.

When the stew was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and sat down at the table. The first spoonful was like a burst of flavor in my mouth - the richness of the mushrooms, the heat of the chili, the hint of sweetness from the tomatoes. It was a symphony of tastes and textures, warming me from the inside out.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the legacy that my grandmother had left me. Her love of cooking had sparked a passion in me that had only grown stronger over the years. And now, as I sat there enjoying this delicious Mushroom Chili Stew, I felt a connection to her that transcended time and space.

From that day on, Mushroom Chili Stew became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it whenever I needed a bit of comfort, a bit of warmth on a cold day. And each time I did, I would think of my grandmother and the culinary adventures she had embarked on, passing down her knowledge and her love of food to me.

And so, as I sit here now, savoring a bowl of Mushroom Chili Stew on a rainy fall day, I can't help but smile. For in this simple dish, I feel the spirit of my grandmother alive and well, guiding me and inspiring me to continue exploring the world of food and flavors. And for that, I am forever grateful.