Introduction

Discover the delightful flavors of homemade fresh pasta with duck and mushrooms, complemented by a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. This dish is not only rich in flavor but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Learn how to bring this sophisticated yet simple recipe to your kitchen.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Fresh pasta
– 300g

– Duck breast
– 2 pieces

– Mushrooms
– 250g, sliced

– Sun-dried tomatoes
– 100g, chopped

– Cream
– 200ml

– Olive oil
– 2 tablespoons

– Garlic
– 2 cloves, minced

– Salt and pepper
– To taste

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Fresh Pasta

Start by making the fresh pasta dough. In a bowl, mix together flour and eggs until you get a smooth dough. Then knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is elastic. Wrap it in a plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Roll Out the Pasta

After resting, divide the dough into smaller pieces. Use a pasta machine or rolling pin to roll the dough out into thin sheets. Flour the sheets lightly to prevent sticking.

Cut the Pasta

Once you have rolled out the dough, cut it into your desired shape, such as tagliatelle or pappardelle. Dust the cut pasta with a little flour to avoid sticking.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are translucent. Then add diced duck breast and cook until browned.

Add Mushrooms

Stir in sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for a few more minutes until the mushrooms are tender.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat and add crème fraîche and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine, letting the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta cooking water to reach the desired consistency.

Toss the Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add fresh herbs if desired.

Serve the Dish

Plate the creamy duck and mushroom pasta, garnishing with grated cheese or more fresh herbs if preferred.

Notes

Fresh Pasta Storage

If you have leftover pasta dough, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.

Mushroom Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for varied flavor.

Duck Alternatives

If duck is not available, chicken or a hearty vegetable option can be used as alternatives.

Herb Suggestions

Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Cook techniques

Making Fresh Pasta

To create fresh pasta, combine flour and eggs, knead the dough until smooth, and let it rest before rolling it out thinly.

Cooking Duck

Sear duck breast skin-side down in a hot pan to render fat and achieve a crispy skin, then finish cooking the other side to your desired doneness.

Preparing a Creamy Sauce

For a creamy sauce, blend ingredients like cream and sun-dried tomatoes, and heat gently to allow the flavors to meld without boiling.

Sautéing Mushrooms

Sauté mushrooms over medium-high heat until golden brown, allowing moisture to evaporate and achieving a rich flavor.

Tossing Pasta and Sauce

Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in a pan, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly and incorporate all ingredients.

Garnishing the Dish

Finish the dish with fresh herbs or grated cheese to enhance presentation and add an extra layer of flavor.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pasta instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought pasta if you’re short on time.

What type of duck is best for this recipe?

A duck breast, such as Moulard or Pekin, is ideal for its rich flavor and tenderness.

How can I make the dish vegetarian?

Substitute duck with mushrooms or use a plant-based protein and adjust the sauce ingredients accordingly.

How do I know when the duck is cooked properly?

Duck breast should be cooked to an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare or adjust based on your preference.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before combining with the pasta.

Conclusion

This dish of fresh pasta with duck and mushrooms in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce offers a delightful combination of flavors that is both comforting and elegant. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that it can be prepared quickly, making it a perfect option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its rich taste and beautiful presentation are sure to impress anyone at the table.

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