Rasta Pasta with Caramelized King Oyster Mushrooms: A Tropical Twist on Comfort Food

 Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen!  Are you ready to spice up your dinner game with vibrant and flavorful twist?  Meet Rasta pasta with Caramelized King Oyster Mushrooms, a dish that's equal parts creamy, slicy, and downright addictive.  

This vegetarian delight draws inspiration from the bold flavors of Caribbean cuisine, bringing a plant-based spin to the table with succulent king oyster mushrooms stealing the spotlight.  

In this post, I'll guide you through everything you need to know to create this stunning dish, including tips, tricks, FAQs, and why this recipe is bound to become a new household favorite.  I can't wait to share it with you so let's get started!  

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

1. A Fusion of Flavors:  Creamy pasta meets the heat of jerk seasoning, balanced perfectly with the rich, caramelized king oyster mushrooms.
2. Vibrant and Instagram-Worthy:  Packed with colorful veggies and glossy mushrooms, this dish is a feast for the eyes.
3. Plant-Based Perfection:  Vegetarian-friendly and easily made vegan, this recipe proves meatless meals can be hearty and satisfying.  
4. Easy to Customize:  Not a fan of spicy?  Prefer gluten-free pasta?  You've got options.  
5. Meal Prep Dream:  Rasta Pasta reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers.  

Ingredients:

For the Rasta Pasta:

• 16 oz. Rigatoni Pasta (regular or Gluten Free)
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Onion, sliced
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, sliced
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, sliced
• 1 Yellow Bell Pepper, sliced
• 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced
• 1 (13.5 oz) Can of Coconut Milk (full fat of extra creaminess)
• 1 cup Vegetable Broth
• 2 Tbsp Milk Jerk Seasoning (adjust for spice levels)
• 2 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast (optional)
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp onion Powder
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• 1 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese (or vegan Parmesan)

For the Caramelized King Oyster Mushrooms:

• 8 oz King Oyster Mushrooms, shredded
• 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Tbsp Butter
• 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
• 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika

Additional Toppings:

• Sliced Green Onions
• Cilantro
• Lime Wedges 

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.  Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.  Drain and set aside.  
2. Caramelize the Mushrooms:  Heat the oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.  Add the shredded king oyster mushrooms and cook until golden brown.  about 5-10 minutes.
3. Make the Marinade: Whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.  Pour mixture over the mushrooms and stir so that everything is coated.  Cook until the mushrooms are carmelized and glossy.  Set aside.  
4. Sauté the Veggies:  In the same skillet heat olive oil over medium heat.  Add the sliced bell peppers and onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.  
5. Make the Creamy Jerk Sauce:  Lower the heat and add the coconut milk, vegetable broth, Parmesan Cheese, jerk seasoning,  nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.  Stir to combine and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.  
6. Toss in the Pasta:  Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until fully coated in the sauce.  
7. Assemble the Dish:  Place the creamy Rasta Pasta and top with the caramelized king oyster mushrooms.  Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lime wedge on the side for a optional tangy kick.  

Tips and Tricks:

• Adjust the Heat:  Use mild jerk seasoning for a subtle spice or kick it up with extra hot sauce. 
• Get the Perfect Mushroom Texture:  Slice the king oyster mushrooms thick for a meatly, satisfying bite.  
• Make it Vegan:  Swap the Parmesan with vegan Parmesan
• Allergies:  If you have a coconut allergy swap the coconut milk with heavy cream.  
• Storage:  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.  Reheat on stovetop with a splash of coconut milk to revive the creamy texture.  

FAQs:

Q:  Can I use a different type of pasta?

A:  Absolutely!  Fettuccine, rotini, or bowties all work well in this recipe.  Choose your favorite!

Q:  Is this dish gluten-free?

A:  It can be!  Just use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce for the mushrooms.  

Q:  Can I add protein?

A:  Sure!  If you're not vegetarian, grilled Shrimp, chicken, or tofu make excellent additions.

Rasta Pasta with Caramelized King Oyster Mushrooms is more than a meal, it's an experience.  With is bold Caribbean flavors, creamy sauce, and tender mushrooms, this dish will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.  Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests, it's a recipe you'll want to keep on repeat.  

Did you make this recipe?  Don't forget to tag me on social media and share your creations.  I'd love to see your colorful bowls of Rasta Pasta!  

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~