Kartainie Salati with Mushrooms

Discover the delightful flavors of Kartainie Salati with Mushrooms, a traditional dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe showcases a beautiful combination of potatoes, eggs, mushrooms, and pickled cucumbers, layered with creamy mayonnaise to create a filling and savory salad. The mushrooms, sautéed to perfection, add an earthy richness, while the pickled cucumbers provide a tangy contrast to the creamy mayonnaise. Each layer is carefully crafted to enhance the distinct flavors of the main ingredients. By using fresh seasonal mushrooms like chanterelles or boletes, you can elevate the dish and surprise your taste buds. This salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can result in a delicious and hearty meal. Whether you're making it for a family gathering or a quiet dinner at home, this recipe will surely impress. Follow the detailed steps below for the perfect Kartainie Salati with Mushrooms. Enjoy the harmonious blend of textures and flavors, and don't hesitate to make it your own with a few tweaks.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 g potatoes
• 400 g mushrooms (champignons or seasonal mushrooms like chanterelles or boletes)
• 4 eggs
• 250 g pickled cucumbers
• 2 small onions
• 300-400 g mayonnaise
• 50 g unsalted butter

Spices:

• Black ground pepper
• Salt

Garnishes:

• Fresh herbs

Preparation Time

Total Time: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by preparing the ingredients. Boil the eggs and potatoes until fully cooked.
2. Meanwhile, wash the mushrooms thoroughly and cut them into small pieces.
3. In a pan, heat the unsalted butter and add the chopped mushrooms.
4. Sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown, and season them with black pepper and a pinch of salt. If using, opt for seasonal mushrooms like chanterelles or boletes for a richer flavor.
5. Dice the onions and pickled cucumbers into small cubes.
6. Once the potatoes and eggs are cooked, let them cool slightly. Dice the potatoes and grate the eggs for layering.
7. Start assembling the salad in layers. Begin with a layer of diced potatoes at the bottom of your serving dish.
8. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise evenly over the potatoes.
9. Add the grated eggs as the next layer, followed by a sprinkle of diced onions.
10. Proceed with a layer of sautéed mushrooms, spreading another thin coat of mayonnaise on top.
11. Scatter the diced pickled cucumbers, adding a fresh crunch to the arrangement.
12. Repeat the layers if desired, ending with a top layer of mushrooms for a visually appealing finish.
13. Cover the salad with a generous layer of mayonnaise, ensuring it is evenly coated.
14. Garnish the top with fresh herbs like a mixture of parsley and dill for extra flavor and color.
15. Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for an hour to let the flavors meld.
16. When ready to serve, scoop the salad onto plates and enjoy as a hearty meal or side dish.
17. For additional crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds as a topping.
18. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
19. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
20. Serve cold and savor the intricate layers and contrast of flavors.

Tips

• For a lighter version, substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Add toasted nuts on top for extra crunch.
• Use fresh herbs like dill and parsley for garnish and enhanced flavor.

Nutritions (optional)

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 10 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbs: 35 g

Variations

• Substitute mayonnaise with sour cream for a tangier taste.
• For a vegetarian option, replace eggs with boiled chickpeas.
• Add a layer of smoked salmon for a seafood twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Ideal as a side dish for grilled meats.
• Pair with a crisp white wine or refreshing lemonade.
• Serve with freshly baked bread to soak up the creamy layers.

Best Places

1. Cafe Pushkin - A historic setting offering authentic Russian cuisine. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
2. Riga Central Market - Taste traditional Latvian dishes in a vibrant market atmosphere. Location: Nēģu iela 7, Riga, Latvia.
3. Latvian Heritage - Enjoy heritage cooking with a modern twist. Location: Argentīnas iela 2, Riga, Latvia.
4. Sēnīte - Famous for its extensive mushroom dishes, located in a scenic area. Location: Vidzeme, Latvia.
5. Kolkovna Eurovea - Experience Central European dishes by the Danube river. Location: Pribinova 8, Bratislava, Slovakia.
6. Fazenda - A cozy atmosphere focusing on homemade dishes. Location: Gogol St, Almaty, Kazakhstan.
7. Lido Atpūtas Centrs - Self-service eatery with traditional Latvian meals. Location: Krasta iela 76, Riga, Latvia.
8. Vermanitis - A classic spot for hearty meals in the city center. Location: Merķeļa iela 13, Riga, Latvia.
9. Rosemary - Organic-focused restaurant offering seasonal cuisine. Location: Skolas iela 2-16, Riga, Latvia.
10. Marbella - Combining Western and Eastern European flavors. Location: Calle El Fuerte, Marbella, Spain.