What’s a vegetarian to do when the chilly forecast and a sparse greenmarket lead her towards Marcella Hazan’s Bolognese or those red-wine braised short ribs from the past? Well, several years into my “weekday vegetarian” journey, I found that the humble mushroom could serve as a great starting point to tackle this issue. They appear to be the one item in the vegetable world, from grocery store buttons to specialty market maitakes, that can mimic the kind of savory umami I long for when the temperatures drop, especially when they are reduced to a concentrated crisp.
To be categorized under “I’ve Never Met a Tart I Didn’t Love,” here is this Mushroom-and-Chives rendition, a winter relation of spring’s Asparagus Tart, and equally straightforwardly stunning. Pair it with a salad, and you have a dependable comfort food menu for winter.
Mushroom Tart with Chives
by Jenny Rosenstrach
Note: Ensure your puff pastry has a few hours to thaw.
3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if needed
20 ounces mixed mushrooms (I used baby Bellas, shiitake, and oyster here), finely chopped
kosher salt and pepper
1 yellow onion, sliced
1 clove, garlic
1 14-ounce frozen puff pastry (such as Dufour brand), thawed
1 egg, whisked
1/2 cup ricotta or crème fraîche
2 tablespoons chives
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Add olive oil, mushrooms, salt, and pepper to a large skillet over medium heat and cook until mushrooms have released a significant amount of moisture. (It’s alright if they seem to pile up too high in the pan, they will decrease in size as they cook.) Push the mushrooms to the perimeter of the pan, then add onion and garlic, along with more oil if it appears dry, and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
While the mushrooms cook down, roll out the puff pastry on a flour-dusted surface and place it on a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet. With a sharp knife, lightly draw/score a rectangle in the center of the pastry (without cutting all the way through), leaving a one-inch border. (This helps the sides puff up during baking.) With your fingers or a pastry brush, apply the whisked egg to the puff pastry’s border. In a small mixing bowl, blend the crème fraîche (or ricotta), chives, any remaining egg, salt, and pepper, and with a rubber spatula, spread the mixture within the drawn rectangle. (It’s alright if you go outside the lines a bit!)
Spoon the mushroom-onion mixture over the top, distributing evenly, then layer with Parmesan. Bake for 20-25 minutes until pastry is golden and puffed and the mushrooms appear shriveled. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Thank you, Jenny! Follow her newsletter here, if you’d like.
P.S. A squash ricotta tart, three simple recipes for winter, and a pantry pasta for bustling weeknights.
**The Ultimate Winter Guide for Vegetarians**
Winter is the season of cozy sweaters, warm fires, and hearty meals. For vegetarians, the colder months bring a wealth of seasonal produce and soothing dishes to warm the soul. Here’s your definitive guide to enjoying a vegetarian winter, complete with advice on seasonal produce, meal ideas, and nutritional guidance.
**Seasonal Produce**
Winter is the ideal time to embrace root vegetables and robust greens. Here are some top seasonal produce selections for vegetarians:
1. **Root Vegetables**: Carrots, parsnips, turnips, and sweet potatoes are plentiful in winter. They are excellent for roasting, mashing, or adding to stews and soups.
2. **Squash**: Varieties like butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash are versatile and can feature in various dishes, from soups to casseroles.
3. **Leafy Greens**: Kale, Swiss chard, and collard greens flourish in cooler temperatures. They are nutrient-rich and can be used in salads, sautés, or smoothies.
4. **Brassicas**: Vegetables like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and broccoli are in season and can be roasted or steamed for a tasty side dish.
5. **Citrus Fruits**: Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons reach their peak during winter, adding a burst of vitamin C and zest to your meals.
**Hearty Vegetarian Meals**
Winter calls for warming and fulfilling meals. Here are some vegetarian recipes perfect for the season:
1. **Vegetable Stews and Soups**: Combine root vegetables, legumes, and grains to create hearty stews and soups. Add spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric for warmth and depth of flavor.
2. **Casseroles**: Layer vegetables, grains, and cheese or plant-based alternatives for a comforting casserole. Try a classic such as a vegetarian shepherd’s pie or a creamy potato gratin.
3. **Chili**: A vegetarian chili with beans, tomatoes, and spices provides a filling and nutritious choice. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
4. **Pasta Dishes**: Use whole-grain or legume-based pasta and pair it with roasted vegetables and a rich tomato or creamy sauce for a satisfactory dinner.
5. **Stuffed Vegetables**: Hollow out squashes, peppers, or mushrooms and fill them with grains, nuts, and herbs for a flavorful and impressive dish.
**Nutritional Tips**
Maintaining a balanced diet during winter is crucial, especially for vegetarians. Here are some suggestions to ensure you’re getting all the nutrients you require:
1. **Protein**: Incorporate various protein sources like beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, and quinoa into your meals.
2. **Iron**: Leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals are good iron sources. Pair them with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance absorption.
3. **Vitamin D**: With less sunlight exposure in winter, consider fortified foods or supplements to maintain adequate vitamin D levels.
4. **Omega-3 Fatty Acids**: Include flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts in your diet to ensure you’re getting enough omega-3s.
5. **Hydration**: It’s easy to overlook hydration in winter. Drink ample water, herbal teas, and broths to remain hydrated.
**Conclusion**
Winter provides a wonderful opportunity for vegetarians to explore the rich flavors and textures of seasonal produce. By incorporating various vegetables, grains, and legumes into your meals, you can enjoy a nutritious and pleasing winter diet. Embrace the season with hearty stews, comforting casseroles, and vibrant salads, and stay warm and nourished throughout the winter.
