Hey Amy!

I have been MIA these last few days because I am moving again.  Yes the fourth time in six months for those of you keeping score.  The temporary corporate housing has rented my apartment to a new temporary New Yorker so I have to move to another temporary apartment in my building while I wait for my permanent home to be ready on July 01.  I can’t wait to move…

So since we are in this constant state of limbo, I have been cooking very basic and simple dishes.  Nothing fancy, mostly chicken and pasta.  Please forgive me for this weeks basic recipes.  I am not feeling very adventurous in the kitchen but watch out!  When I move and have a normal sized everything, it will be on!

Ingredients:

1/3 c. dried shiitake mushrooms
1 1/2 c. hot water
1 Tbsp. olive oil
6 bacon strips, chopped
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 c. fresh shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, chopped finely
1 tsp. fresh oregano, chopped finely
9 oz. chicken stock
1 1/4 c. heavy cream
salt and pepper to taste
1 lb. dried tagliatelle
1/2 c. fresh Parmesan cheese

Place the dried mushrooms in a bowl with the hot water.  Let soak for 30 minutes or until softened.  Remove, squeezing excess water back into the bowl.  Strain the liquid in a fine-meshed strainer and reserve.  Slice the soaked mushrooms, discarding the stems.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add bacon and chicken, then stir fry for about 3 minutes.  Add both dried and fresh mushrooms, onion, and oregano.  Saute for 5-7 minutes.  Pour in stock and mushroom liquid and bring to a boil while stirring.  Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, continuing to stir until liquid has reduced.  Add cream and simmer for 5 minutes stirring, until it begins to thicken.  Season with salt and pepper.  Set aside.

Cook pasta according to your taste.  Drain and transfer to a serving dish.  Pour the sauce over the pasta.  Add the Parmesan cheese and toss.  Serve.

This is one of those pasta dishes that taste even better (if possible) the next day.  Enjoy!

xo–me

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