This Creamy Mushroom and Pudina (Mint) Sauce is a flavorful, aromatic dish that combines earthy mushrooms with a rich, creamy sauce, enhanced by the fresh, cooling flavors of mint. The dish is perfect as a side or main course when served over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. The addition of mint crumbles at the end adds a refreshing twist to the creamy texture, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. It’s a comforting dish that’s simple yet indulgent, perfect for cozy dinners or a special treat.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- Onions: 3 medium, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 3 cloves, chopped (about 1 tbsp)
- Mushrooms: 200g, sliced (about 2 1/2 cups)
- Fresh Cream: 100ml (about 1/2 cup)
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper Powder: 1 tsp
- Red Chili Powder: 1 tsp
- Water: 200ml (about 3/4 cup + 1 tbsp)
- Corn Flour: 1 tbsp mixed with 240ml (1 cup) water
- Dry Pudina (Mint) Leaf: Crumbled, to taste
Directions:
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions (1 1/2 cups) and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add the chopped garlic (1 tbsp) and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms (2 1/2 cups) to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
- Add Cream and Spices:
- Pour in the fresh cream (1/2 cup) and stir well to combine with the mushrooms.
- Season with salt, black pepper powder (1 tsp), and red chili powder (1 tsp). Mix until the spices are well incorporated.
- Add Water and Thicken:
- Pour in 200ml of water (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the corn flour mixture (1 tbsp corn flour mixed with 1 cup water). Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle crumbled dry pudina (mint) leaf over the top of the sauce for added flavor.
- Serve hot. Enjoy as a side dish or over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes as a main course.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, lamb, or steak.
- Spoon the creamy mushroom sauce over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty and comforting main course.
- Pair with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure that the mushrooms are evenly sliced to ensure uniform cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste—add more or less chili powder, salt, or pepper depending on your spice preference.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little more corn flour mixture and cook until it reaches your desired consistency.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Mushrooms: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and B vitamins, mushrooms support immune health and provide a low-calorie source of protein.
- Fresh Cream: Adds a rich source of fat, providing a creamy texture while also offering calcium.
- Pudina (Mint): Known for its cooling and digestive properties, mint helps in soothing the stomach and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian.
- Can be made gluten-free if corn flour is used as a thickening agent.
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting the cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: The combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy sauce, and aromatic mint creates a rich and comforting flavor profile.
- Quick and Easy: The dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish or over your favorite grains, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices and seasoning to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.
Conclusion:
This creamy mushroom and pudina sauce is a wonderfully comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The richness of the creamy sauce is balanced with the aromatic freshness of mint, creating a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Whether as a side or a main, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried mushrooms. Just soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes and use the rehydrated mushrooms in this recipe. - Can I substitute the fresh cream with something lighter?
Yes, you can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version. - How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based cream, and omit the dairy cheese if used in other variations. - Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. - How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add more chili powder or even fresh chopped chili for a spicier kick. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially when using corn flour as a thickening agent. - What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with grilled meats or a fresh salad. - Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint?
Yes, you can use dried mint, but be sure to crumble it finely so it can blend well into the sauce. - How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
If the sauce is too runny, you can add a bit more corn flour mixed with water to thicken it to your liking.