A mushroom sauce is a rich and flavorful addition to many dishes, from steaks to pasta to chicken. It’s made with fresh mushrooms, cream, and a variety of seasonings, creating a deliciously smooth and savory sauce. Here’s a simple recipe for a classic mushroom sauce:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms or white button mushrooms, sliced (you can use any type of mushroom)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)
Instructions:
- Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
- If you’re using white wine, pour it in now and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it’s mostly absorbed. This step enhances the depth of the sauce, but it’s optional if you prefer to skip alcohol.
- Add the chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for another 5 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, and simmer for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. If you want a thicker sauce, continue to cook for a few more minutes.
- Stir in the fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, you can add Parmesan cheese for a creamy, cheesy touch.
- Remove from heat, and serve the mushroom sauce over steaks, chicken, pasta, or any dish that could use a savory, creamy topping.
Variations:
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or almond milk and skip the butter or use dairy-free butter.
- You can add a dash of soy sauce for more umami flavor.
- If you prefer a more earthy taste, try adding a few dried porcini mushrooms that have been rehydrated in warm water.
This mushroom sauce is incredibly versatile and enhances many dishes with its creamy, savory richness!
