Kasha
A hearty, savory dish combining toasted kasha with sautéed onions and mushrooms, mixed with bow ties for a comforting vegetarian meal full of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a pot and cook the bow ties until al dente.
- Drain and cool the cooked bow ties.
- Put the kasha in a wide mixing bowl and add the beaten egg.
- Mix with a fork until the egg is fully absorbed and the grains of kasha are slightly moistened.
- Let this mixture dry overnight or cook in a skillet over moderately high heat, stirring until the kasha is dry and grains are separate.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms until light brown and soft.
- Bring 2 cups of salted water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the cooked kasha and cook until it has absorbed all of the water.
- Mix in the sautéed vegetables and bow ties.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure the kasha is well-dried before cooking. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture or omit it entirely. For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the kasha. This recipe pairs beautifully with **Irish Fruit Soda Bread** for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a main dish or side. This kasha dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added nutrition. Consider serving it alongside **Aunt Marion'S Hawaiian Short Ribs** for a delightful contrast of flavors. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the presentation and taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it, covering it loosely to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kasha contains roughly 504 calories, with 7g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2156mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of bow ties?
Absolutely! You can substitute bow ties with any small pasta shape like fusilli or penne. Just ensure you cook it al dente for the best texture. Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
Is kasha gluten-free?
Kasha, which is roasted buckwheat, is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the packaging to ensure there are no cross-contaminants if you are preparing food for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
To increase the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu. You can also mix in legumes like chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option. These additions will complement the flavors of the kasha and vegetables.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).