S'ghetti with 'Shrooms!!

Homegaters!

We're starting to come out of the winter doldrums, sports fans. MLS season kicks off this week, hockey season is skating along, basketball season is holding court, Spring Training is in full swing, NASCAR is revving up and how many more puns can I add in one sentence? Phew! But anyway, the gang came over on Sunday to watch some hockey. I was in the mood to make something a little different than just finger foods, so I came up with: S'ghetti with 'Shrooms!

Comeon let's be serious, who doesn't love pasta? This dish is a bit different and that's what makes it fun. The sauce isn't your typical red sauce. It's a savory, brown sauce made with sauteed mushrooms, granulated garlic & onion, vermouth, beef stock and demi-glace. It's rich and savory and provides a nice change from the classic spaghetti and meatballs. The mushrooms are earthy and meaty. I used cremini mushrooms, but you can go with any kind of mushrooms you'd like. You could even use a combination of different types. It doesn't take long to prepare. You'll find this rustic recipe to be a nice go-to when you want to change things up from your regular pasta repertoire. I served this dish family-style so everyone could help themselves.

Mmmm....

S'ghetti with 'Shrooms
(serves 4-6)

1 lb dried pasta
16 oz whole mushrooms, quartered  
3 tbs olive oil
1/2 tsp granulated garlic
1/2 tsp granulated onion
1/2 cup dry white vermouth
1.5 oz veal demi-glace
2 cups beef or veal stock
salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1.  Heat the olive oil in a large saute pan over medium heat. At the same time, begin heating the water for the pasta. Place 1 tbs of salt to the water. Add the mushrooms and saute until the mushrooms are golden brown. The mushrooms might release their own juices. Continue sauteeing them until the juices cook out. Add the granulated garlic and onion and heat through.

2.  Add the vermouth and let it reduce slightly. Add the demi-glace and continue cooking until it melts down and coats the mushrooms.

3.  Add the stock and bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer. By this time, the pasta water should be boiling. Add the pasta and cook until al dente.

4.  Drain the pasta and add to the sauce in the saute pan. Let it heat through.

5.  Place in a pasta or large serving bowl and serve family style.


So there you have it! This was a real hit with the gang and I'm sure your crew will enjoy it as well. Hope you decide to try it.

I'll see you guys next week for more gameday grub and entertaining ideas! In the meantime, keep on homegating!