Description
This Creamy Miso Mushroom Pasta is a delightful fusion dish combining earthy mushrooms with rich miso and creamy parmesan sauce. Cooked al dente pasta is enveloped in a luscious, umami-packed sauce that is both comforting and sophisticated, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 4 servings pasta (cooked al-dente)
For the Sauce
- 3 cups mushrooms (of your choice, sliced)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 1.5 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1.5 teaspoons dashi powder
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 cups cream or milk
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare your pasta according to the package instructions and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Pan-Fry Mushrooms: In a pan over medium heat, add the sliced mushrooms without oil and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release their aroma.
- Sauté with Aromatics: Add soy sauce, butter, black pepper, and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and well combined.
- Add Miso and Cream: Stir in the miso paste, dashi powder, and cream or milk. Mix thoroughly and let it simmer on low heat for 2 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a smoother, thicker sauce without cheese, dissolve 2 teaspoons cornstarch in 4 tablespoons cold water and add to the pan. Stir until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Whisk in the parmesan cheese until melted, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the sauce coats the pasta and begins to thicken.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy a creamy, flavorful pasta dish.
Notes
- Cooking mushrooms without oil initially helps concentrate their flavor.
- You can substitute cream with milk for a lighter version, but cream yields a richer sauce.
- Dashi powder adds a subtle umami note; if unavailable, chicken or vegetable broth powder can be a substitute.
- Adjust black pepper to taste depending on your spice preference.
- Cornstarch is optional for thickening if you want a cheese-free smooth sauce.
- Parmesan cheese can be replaced with a vegetarian hard cheese if avoiding animal rennet.