Mushroom Ragout

Mushroom Ragout Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Croatia

Region / culture: Croatia | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Mushroom Ragout is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of both dried and fresh mushrooms with the sweetness of balsamic vinegar and tomatoes. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or as a main course over pasta or rice.

History

Ragout is a French stew that typically consists of meat or vegetables cooked in a rich sauce. Mushroom ragout is a vegetarian version of this classic dish, using mushrooms as the main ingredient. This recipe has been adapted over the years to include a variety of mushrooms and additional seasonings to enhance the flavors.

Ingredients

1 oz (28 g) dried porcini mushrooms
2 tbsp diluted balsamic vinegar
1 large red onion, finely minced
2 small garlic cloves, finely minced
1 lb (454 g) fresh brown mushrooms, such as cremini or portobello, well-cleaned and sliced
3-4 small ripe plum tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley
salt
freshly ground pepper

How to prepare

Soak dried mushrooms in warm water to cover for at least 45 minutes or until softened.
Remove from liquid carefully and rinse well under cold running water to remove any sand clinging.
Roughly chop mushrooms and drain thoroughly.
Strain soaking liquid at least twice through a sieve lined with cheesecloth and reserve.
Heat a couple of teaspoons of reserved mushroom liquid and diluted balsamic vinegar in a heavy skillet. Sauté onion until translucent and tender, for 10–15 minutes.
Use additional mushroom liquid if onions start to stick.
Add garlic and all mushrooms. Turn heat to low and cook, stirring intermittently, for up to 20 minutes or until tender.
Add tomatoes, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
Continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

Variations

Add a splash of white wine or vegetable broth for extra depth of flavor.
Stir in a dollop of cream or coconut milk for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rinse the dried mushrooms thoroughly to remove any sand or grit before using them in the recipe.

- Use a combination of different types of fresh mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile.

- Be patient when cooking the mushrooms, as they release a lot of moisture and need time to cook down and develop their flavors.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the mushroom ragout over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions until translucent and tender before adding the mushrooms to develop their flavors.

- Cook the mushrooms over low heat to allow them to release their moisture and caramelize slightly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any combination of fresh mushrooms that you prefer, such as button mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, or oyster mushrooms.

- Substitute red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for the balsamic vinegar if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

The mushroom ragout can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the mushroom ragout with a sprig of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the mushroom ragout with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

- Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, to complement the earthy flavors of the mushrooms.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the mushroom ragout in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 12g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 1g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin D: 0%

- Calcium: 2%

- Iron: 6%

- Potassium: 10%

Alergens

This recipe contains mushrooms and may not be suitable for those with mushroom allergies.

Summary

This mushroom ragout is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy and nutritious option for a vegetarian meal.

Summary

Mushroom Ragout is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for vegetarians and mushroom lovers alike. With a rich and savory sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish for a delicious and comforting meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had just finished a long day of foraging in the woods for mushrooms. As I sorted through my bountiful harvest, I couldn't help but think about all the delicious dishes I could make with these fresh mushrooms.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own grandmother work her magic in the kitchen. She was the one who taught me the importance of using fresh, local ingredients and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Over the years, I had collected a vast array of recipes from friends, family, and even strangers I had met along my travels. But there was something special about this mushroom ragout recipe that caught my eye.

I first came across the recipe in a tattered old cookbook at a flea market in the city. The pages were yellowed and stained, and the recipe itself was written in a spidery script that was almost illegible. But as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the rich, earthy flavors of the dish in my mind.

I knew I had to try it for myself. So, armed with my basket of freshly picked mushrooms and a sense of determination, I set to work in my cozy kitchen. I carefully chopped the mushrooms, onions, and garlic, savoring the earthy aroma that filled the room. As I sautéed the vegetables in a generous amount of butter, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation.

Next, I added a splash of white wine and slowly simmered the mixture until the mushrooms were tender and the sauce was thick and fragrant. I couldn't resist sneaking a taste, and I was instantly transported to a culinary paradise. The flavors were bold and comforting, with just the right balance of richness and acidity.

As I ladled the mushroom ragout over a bed of creamy polenta, I couldn't help but smile to myself. This dish was a masterpiece, a true testament to the power of fresh, simple ingredients and a little bit of love. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish that I would proudly pass down to future generations.

And so, as I sat down to enjoy my meal, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous encounter that had led me to discover this delicious mushroom ragout recipe. It was a reminder of the joy and creativity that cooking brought into my life, and the endless possibilities that lay waiting in each new recipe I tried.

As I savored each bite, I knew that this dish would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a recipe – it was a story, a memory, a connection to the past and a promise for the future. And as I shared the recipe with my loved ones, I knew that it would continue to bring joy and nourishment to all who tasted its delicious flavors.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a warm and comforting meal, look no further than a steaming bowl of mushroom ragout. It's a dish that has stood the test of time, a classic recipe that will never go out of style. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass it down to your own grandchildren, just as I have done with you. For in the end, the true magic of cooking lies not just in the ingredients or the techniques, but in the stories and memories that we create along the way.