Chashushuli (Ostri): Spicy Georgian Mushroom Stew Recipe
Chashushuli (Ostri) is a traditional spicy Georgian mushroom stew featuring tender button mushrooms simmered in a rich and aromatic tomato base with fresh herbs, adjika, and warm spices. This hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish is perfect for a comforting meal and showcases the vibrant flavors of Georgian cuisine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Georgian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Mushrooms
- 1 kg button mushrooms, stems removed and cut into quarters
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 25 g fresh cilantro, finely chopped (stems and leaves separated)
- 1 green chilli, minced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 2 tbsp adjika
- 4 tsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried savory
- 2 (400g/14oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand
- 2 bay leaves
- 400 ml (1.5 cups) water
- Neutral oil for cooking (about 2 tbsp)
Instructions
- Cook the mushrooms: Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the quartered mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they reduce in size and brown significantly, about 5 to 10 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Add a bit more oil to the pan if needed, reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the diced onion, cilantro stems, and minced green chili. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and lightly translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, adjika, tomato paste, and dried savory. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until the mixture is fragrant. Return the cooked mushrooms to the saucepan and stir well to coat them with the onion and spice mixture.
- Simmer the stew: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and 400 ml (1.5 cups) of water. Add the bay leaves and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered until the stew has thickened and reduced, about 30 minutes.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the fresh cilantro leaves just before serving. Remove bay leaves, taste for seasoning, and serve the stew immediately while warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- Adjika is a spicy Georgian chili paste and can be found in specialty stores or online. Substitute with a blend of chili flakes and garlic if unavailable.
- Dried savory adds a slightly peppery note typical in Georgian cuisine. Thyme can be used as a substitute if necessary.
- The stew thickens as it simmers; stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom.
- This recipe can be served with crusty bread or traditional Georgian bread like puri.
Keywords: Georgian mushroom stew, Chashushuli, Ostri, spicy mushroom stew, vegetarian Georgian recipes, adjika mushroom stew
