Kasha Varnishkes

This hearty, comfort food dish is part of the Jewish tradition. While we won’t claim that ours is authentic, it’s still become a favorite. Kasha is the name given to buckwheat groats when they have been toasted. Farfalle pasta is sometimes referred to as bowtie pasta. But in fact, “farfalle” means butterflies. Call it what you will, this is stick-to-your-ribs happy food.

YIELD: 4 generous servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil, divided
• 3/4 cup (120 g) chopped onion
• 1 1/2 cups (5 ounces, or 140 g) sliced cremini mushrooms
• 1/2 cup (92 g) buckwheat, toasted (see Recipe Note)
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) dry white wine, or additional broth
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups (355 ml) boiling water
• 1 tablespoon (18 g) vegan bouillon paste
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning blend
• 4 ounces (113 g) dry farfalle pasta (whole-grain or white), cooked and drained
• 5 ounces (140 g) baby spinach
• Salt and pepper
• Minced fresh dill, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the onions for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Add the mushrooms to the same skillet and cook until tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to the same plate as the onions, but do not mix the two.
3. Add the remaining tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil to the skillet and add the buckwheat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the buckwheat is covered with oil.
4. Add the onions, wine, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the wine is mostly absorbed.
5. Combine the boiling water, the bouillon paste, and the seasoning blend. Pour 1 cup (235 ml) of the broth into the skillet and cook for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the buckwheat is tender.
6. Add the mushrooms, pasta, spinach, and splashes of the remaining broth until the spinach wilts and the mixture is hot throughout. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with minced fresh dill when serving.

RECIPE NOTE:

• If kasha (toasted buckwheat groats) is available, omit the toasting step. To toast buckwheat, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the buckwheat and cook until browned, stirring often.

Enjoy this delicious and comforting Kasha Varnishkes, a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of toasted buckwheat, tender mushrooms, and hearty farfalle pasta. Whether you’re familiar with the Jewish tradition or not, this recipe is sure to become a favorite on your dining table. Serve it with a side of leafy greens for a complete and satisfying meal. Feel free to make it your own by trying different grains or adding your favorite vegetables. So gather your ingredients and savor the heartwarming goodness of this delightful comfort food. Enjoy!