Il Cucinologo
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Hearty Minestrone with Porcini and Parmesan Cream

17/11/2023

I can provide you with a recipe to prepare a variation of hearty minestrone with porcini and parmesan cream. It is a dish that combines the rustic and earthy flavor of porcini mushrooms with the creaminess and rich taste of parmesan.

Ingredients

  • 300 g fresh porcini mushrooms (or rehydrated, if dried)
  • 1 large potato
  • 1 zucchini
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 celery stalk
  • 1 small onion
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 liter vegetable broth
  • 100 g grated parmesan
  • 200 ml fresh cream
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh aromatic herbs (thyme, parsley, rosemary) finely chopped to taste

Preparation

  1. Clean and cut the porcini mushrooms into pieces. If using dried porcini, remember to rehydrate them in warm water before use.

  2. Wash and cut the potato, zucchini, carrot, and celery into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.

  3. Finely chop the onion and garlic.

  4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little extra virgin olive oil until they become translucent.

  5. Add the porcini mushrooms and let them brown for a few minutes.

  6. Add the potato, zucchini, carrot, and celery. Mix well and let the flavors meld for a couple of minutes.

  7. Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover with a lid, and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

  8. While the minestrone is cooking, prepare the parmesan cream. In a saucepan, heat the cream without bringing it to a boil, then gradually add the grated parmesan, stirring continuously until a smooth cream is obtained.

  9. When the vegetables are cooked, adjust the salt and pepper, and add the chopped aromatic herbs.

  10. To serve, portion the hearty minestrone into bowls and pour a spoonful of parmesan cream on top. If desired, you can garnish with a few parmesan shavings and a drizzle of raw olive oil.

Curiosities

The minestrone is a dish rich in history, reflecting peasant cuisine. Its origins date back to Roman times, when it was considered a substantial dish for the less affluent classes. The parmesan cream, on the other hand, adds a note of elegance and richness to this humble dish, creating a tasty and surprising contrast.

Enjoy your meal!