EmiliaRomagna, a picturesque region in Italy, is celebrated not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its rich culinary heritage. Among its many offerings, creamy mushroom spaghetti stands out, effortlessly marrying the earthiness of mushrooms with the silky smoothness of cream, creating a dish that is comforting and indulgent.
Ingredients
400g spaghetti
300g fresh mushrooms (such as porcini or button)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
300ml heavy cream
50g grated ParmigianoReggiano
3 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
StepbyStep Preparation
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by cleaning the mushrooms thoroughly. If using porcini, a soft brush works well to remove any dirt. Slice them into even pieces to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.
2. Boil the Spaghetti
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, allowing it to soften and become translucent, which should take around 34 minutes. Once the onion is ready, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the oil. Cook for about 57 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender. Season with salt and pepper, letting the flavors meld together.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the mushrooms are cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, allowing the cream to combine with the mushrooms, creating a velvety sauce. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
When the spaghetti reaches the desired doneness, reserve a cup of the pasta water and then drain the remainder. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the mushroom and cream sauce. Toss gently, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Finish with Cheese
Sprinkle the grated ParmigianoReggiano over the pasta, tossing lightly to incorporate it into the dish. The cheese will melt into the warm sauce, enriching the flavors further.
8. Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the creamy mushroom spaghetti for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy the warmth and richness of this classic Emilian dish.
As you take a moment to savor each bite, let the simple yet profound flavors transport you to the heart of Italy, where culinary traditions thrive with love and care.