Lithuanian Buckwheat and Mushroom Stew
A hearty and earthy stew featuring buckwheat groats and a generous amount of mushrooms, often enriched with sour cream or cream for a rich flavor. This dish is a staple in Lithuanian cuisine, highlighting the country's love for mushrooms and grains.
๐ง Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Buckwheat groats (kasha)
- 500 g Mixed mushrooms (e.g., porcini, chanterelles, cremini)(cleaned and sliced)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 cups Vegetable broth
- 0.5 cup Sour cream or heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Butter or oil
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped, for garnish)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Rinse buckwheat groats under cold water. Set aside.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sautรฉ until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- 4
Stir in the rinsed buckwheat groats and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until buckwheat is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- 5
Stir in the sour cream or heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
- 6
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped dill.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a deeper mushroom flavor, use a mix of dried and fresh mushrooms. Rehydrate dried mushrooms in hot water, then add both the mushrooms and their strained soaking liquid to the stew.
- โEnsure the buckwheat is cooked until tender but not mushy.
- โAdjust the amount of liquid based on your desired stew consistency.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced potatoes or carrots along with the onions for extra vegetables.
- Incorporate smoked bacon or pork belly for a richer, meatier flavor.
- For a vegan version, omit the sour cream/heavy cream and use vegetable broth only.