Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner recipe that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This ground pork and mushroom recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's packed with savory flavors, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for you. Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients: You'll Need These
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight meal.
- 1 lb ground pork
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced (or a mix of mushrooms for more depth of flavor)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry sherry or white wine (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let's Cook!
Follow these easy steps to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the dish.
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Brown the pork: Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This ensures the pork is cooked thoroughly and develops a nice texture.
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Add the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
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Simmer the sauce: Pour in the sherry (or white wine, if using) and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), thyme, and rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Combine and simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded. This slow simmering allows the flavors to develop fully.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over your favorite cooked pasta or rice.
Cooking Tips for Perfection
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms.
- If you don't have sherry or white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or beef broth.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes would add a nice kick!
- For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations to Explore
- Spicy Ground Pork and Mushroom: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Ground Pork and Mushroom: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Ground Pork and Mushroom with Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate)
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. This is an estimate for a serving over pasta:
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy ground pork mushroom recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal!