Mushroom Bolognese

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As a mushroom growing enthusiast, I am always looking for creative ways to incorporate my homegrown mushrooms into delicious meals. One of my all-time favorite dishes to cook is mushroom bolognese. It’s a vegetarian twist on the classic Italian meat sauce, and it’s packed with rich, savory flavors that make it a hit with everyone, not just vegetarians.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of chopped mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 can of crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup of red wine
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon of dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 12 ounces of your favorite pasta
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened.
  3. Next, add the chopped mushrooms and cook until they start to brown and release their juices.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, red wine, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Simmer the sauce for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
  6. While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
  7. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the pan with the mushroom bolognese sauce. Toss to combine.
  8. Serve the mushroom bolognese over the pasta with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

My Thoughts

I love the earthy and meaty flavor that the mixed mushrooms bring to this dish. They have a great texture that mimics ground meat, making this bolognese sauce incredibly satisfying. The addition of red wine adds a depth of flavor, and the simmering process allows the sauce to develop a rich and robust taste. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies with the onions, carrots, and celery.

Final Words

Mushroom bolognese has become a staple in my household. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining vegetarian friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether you’re a mushroom enthusiast like me or simply looking to explore more plant-based culinary options.