Earthy, savory, and surprisingly satisfying, braised mushrooms with satay offer a vegetarian delight that's both simple to make and bursting with flavor. This recipe elevates the humble mushroom to new heights, transforming them from a side dish into a hearty and deeply flavorful main course perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated vegetarian feast. The rich, creamy satay sauce, infused with aromatic spices and a touch of coconut milk, perfectly complements the tender, braised mushrooms, creating a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Forget bland vegetarian meals; this recipe is a game-changer.
The combination of succulent mushrooms and the vibrant, nutty notes of the satay sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it accessible to cooks of all levels. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own delectable Braised Mushrooms with Satay.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Chopping board
Ingredients
- Straw mushrooms
- Tofu (fried or white)
- Minced lemongrass
- Minced chili
- Coriander
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Fermented bean curd: 1 cube
- Sugar: 2 teaspoons
- Vegetarian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Cooking oil
- Fresh coconut water or filtered water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Sauté Aromatics
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and fry in a pan of oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Slice the lemongrass and chili and sauté in a pan until fragrant.
Step 2. Stir-fry Mushrooms and Tofu
- Add the straw mushrooms and tofu to the pan and stir-fry until fragrant.
Step 3. Season and Braise
- Season with sugar, vegetarian seasoning, soy sauce, and fermented bean curd.
- Stir well to combine and let the ingredients absorb the spices.
- Add fresh coconut water (or filtered water) and cook over low heat until the water boils.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add the remaining chopped lemongrass, stir well, and turn off the stove.
Read more: Vietnamese Chicken Stew (Ca Ri Ga): A Flavorful Comfort Dish
Tips
- Pre-fried tofu balls can be used for convenience.
- The amount of remaining water can be adjusted to your preference. Leave more water if serving with boiled vegetables.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 20-25g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of mushrooms besides cremini?
Absolutely! Shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms would all work well. Just adjust cooking time as needed, depending on the mushroom's size and thickness.
2. What can I do if I don't have peanut butter for the satay sauce?
While peanut butter is traditional, you can substitute with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor. Adjust the amount of liquid accordingly.
This Braised Mushrooms with Satay recipe proves that vegetarian cooking can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. With minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe, and don't hesitate to experiment with different mushroom varieties and spice levels to make it your own!