Kasha Varnishkes with Caramelized Onions and Mushrooms

Bring 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons water to a boil in a medium pot over high heat.

Stir in buckwheat groats, 1/2 teaspoon of the oil, cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18 minutes.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Warm 2 tablespoons of the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add onions and a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes.

Add mushrooms, raise the heat to high, and cook for 4 to 6 more minutes, stirring frequently.

Reduce the heat to low, and cook for 10 to 15 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions and mushrooms begin to caramelize.

Meanwhile, cook pasta according to directions on package.

Drain pasta and toss with mushroom mixture.

Lightly fluff the groats with a fork and then stir them into the pasta and mushroom mixture.

Season with remaining salt and pepper.

Garnish with remaining 1 tablespoon oil, parsley, and pumpkin seeds, if using.