As a mushroom enthusiast and someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, I’m thrilled to share my go-to mushroom bolognese recipe with you! This vegetarian twist on the classic Italian dish is packed with rich flavors and hearty textures that make it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and portobello), finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely grated
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces of pasta of your choice
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
To begin, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
Add the chopped mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown. This step is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors in the bolognese.
Next, incorporate the grated carrot and chopped celery, allowing them to soften and meld into the mushroom mixture.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine. Season the sauce with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the bolognese simmer and reduce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to intensify.
While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. I prefer using a hearty pasta like rigatoni or pappardelle to hold up to the robust bolognese.
Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and combine it with the mushroom bolognese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
Personal Touch:
I love adding a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese over each serving. The umami richness of the cheese complements the earthy flavors of the mushrooms beautifully, taking this dish to a whole new level of indulgence.
Conclusion:
This mushroom bolognese has become a staple in my cooking repertoire, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more meatless meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. Buon appetito!