Baked Mushrooms

Baked Mushrooms - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

When we think of mushrooms, we imagine a variety of dishes, from creamy soups to crunchy salads or flavorful sides. Today's recipe is a true culinary gem: baked mushrooms, stuffed with a savory mixture of onion, finely chopped mushrooms, and cheese, topped with a juicy slice of pickled pepper and a sprinkle of fresh dill. This dish not only brings an exquisite taste but is also an excellent option for a quick yet impressive dinner.

Ingredients needed:

- 1 kg larger mushrooms (ideal for stuffing)
- 1 medium onion
- 200 g cheese (you can also use goat cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 pickled peppers (these provide a delicious contrast with the mushrooms)
- Fresh dill for decoration

Ingredient details:

Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, full of nutrients and low in calories, making them ideal for a healthy diet. You can find various types of mushrooms; champignon are the most accessible, but shiitake or portobello mushrooms can add a unique flavor. The onion adds sweetness to the dish, while the cheese provides creaminess, and the pickled peppers add a touch of acidity that balances everything out.

Step by step: Preparing baked mushrooms

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by washing the mushrooms under cold running water, ensuring you remove all impurities. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully remove the stems of the mushrooms. These will be finely chopped and used in the filling.

2. Chopping the ingredients: Finely chop the mushroom stems and onion. Make sure all ingredients are chopped evenly for uniform cooking.

3. Sautéing: In a pan, heat the two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and chopped mushrooms, stirring frequently. Let them sauté for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their juices and the mixture becomes slightly golden.

4. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to distribute the seasonings evenly. Once the mixture has cooled slightly, you can proceed to fill the mushrooms.

5. Filling the mushrooms: Use a spoon to fill the mushroom caps with the sautéed onion and mushroom mixture. Do this carefully, filling each mushroom until it is full, but don't overfill to avoid spilling during baking.

6. Preparing for the oven: Place the stuffed mushrooms in a greased baking dish. This step is essential to prevent the mushrooms from sticking to the dish.

7. Adding the topping: Each mushroom will receive a thin slice of cheese and a slice of pickled pepper on top. The cheese will melt and form a delicious crust, while the pickled pepper will add an acidic contrast.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat) and place the tray with the mushrooms inside. Let them bake for 30 minutes until the mushrooms are tender, and the cheese is melted and golden.

9. Serving: Once the mushrooms are ready, remove them from the oven and garnish them with chopped fresh dill. This not only adds color but also a fresh and aromatic taste.

Serving suggestions: These baked mushrooms pair perfectly with a light green salad or toasted bread to soak up the delicious juices. You can pair the dish with a dry white wine, which will complement the flavors.

Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian variant, you can replace the mushrooms with zucchini or eggplant, stuffed with the same mixture.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I replace the cheese? Yes, you can use feta or mozzarella cheese for a different taste.
- How can I keep the mushrooms longer? If you have leftover mushrooms, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan.

Nutritional benefits: Mushrooms are an excellent source of vitamin D, antioxidants, and minerals, being low in calories. They are ideal for a healthy and balanced diet.

In conclusion, baked mushrooms are a wonderful choice for a tasty, easy-to-make dinner that is full of flavor. By experimenting with the ingredients, you can transform this simple recipe into a truly unique dish. So, don't hesitate to play with flavors and textures to find the perfect combination for you! Enjoy your meal!