Wild Mushroom Ragoût

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Serves four to six as a side dish.

Yields 1-1/2 cups.

To learn more, read:
The Bold Flavors of Dried Mushrooms
by Tony Rosenfeld
from Fine Cooking
Issue 76
Last Edit Date: 3/5/2010 4:06:35 PM

I like to keep a batch of this tasty little ragoût on hand because it’s great as a side dish, garnish, or mix-in.

more about:

1 oz. mixed dried mushrooms (like chanterelles, porcini, morels, and oyster; about 1-1/4 cups)
1/2 oz. dried shiitakes (1/3 cup; 5 medium caps)
2 Tbs. unsalted butter
2 large shallots, minced (about 1/2 cup)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbs. Cognac or brandy
1 Tbs. soy sauce
1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh chives
1 Tbs. heavy cream or unsalted butter
Fresh lemon juice to taste (optional)

Put the mushrooms in a medium heatproof bowl. Pour in 2 cups boiling water and weight down the mushrooms with a small plate so they are submerged. Soak until they're plumped and softened, about 20 min. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the mushrooms to a cutting board, squeezing any excess liquid from the mushrooms back into the soaking liquid. Let cool. Remove and discard any tough stems. Coarsely chop the mushrooms. Strain the soaking liquid through a coffee filter or paper towel set in a sieve and reserve.

Heat the butter in a 10- or 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until it melts and begins to foam. Add the shallots, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring, until they soften and become translucent, 2 to 3 min. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown in places, about 5 min. Add the Cognac or brandy and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add all of the mushroom soaking liquid, the soy sauce, and thyme and cook until the liquid reduces by about half, 5 to 7 min.

If using right away, stir in the chives and cream (or butter). Season to taste with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, if using.

Make Ahead Tips

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the ragoût will keep for four to five days. Reheat over low heat, adding a couple of tablespoons of water, if necessary, to keep the sauce moist. Add the chives and cream and season to taste with salt and pepper and lemon juice, if using.

nutrition information (per serving):
Size : based on six servings; Calories (kcal): 80; Fat (g): 5; Fat Calories (kcal): 45; Saturated Fat (g): 3; Protein (g): 2; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 1.5; Carbohydrates (g): 6; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 0; Sodium (mg): 360; Cholesterol (mg): 15; Fiber (g): 1;

Photo: Scott Phillips

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by sbgolden, 4/16/2010Terrific! I have made it several times. Served with beef, lamb, chicken, salmon. I have used it as an add-in with simple grain pilafs. I am certain I will find other uses for it. Really good!!!