Cream cheese with mushrooms

Cream Cheese with Mushrooms - A Delicious and Healthy Indulgence

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Refrigeration time: 1-2 hours
Number of servings: 4-6

Recipe History

Cream cheese with mushrooms is a classic combination that has delighted family meals and parties over the years. This simple yet savory recipe blends the creamy texture of cheese with the umami of mushrooms, offering a perfect snack for any occasion. It is appreciated for its versatility and can be served on toast, as a filling for tarts, or as part of a platter of appetizers.

Ingredients

- 300 g cottage cheese
- 5 tablespoons sour cream
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 100 g canned mushrooms (or fresh mushrooms, if you prefer)
- 4-5 green onion tops
- 4 sprigs of fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
- Pepper
- 1 teaspoon herbs de Provence
- Salt (to taste)

Preparing the Mushrooms

1. Start by washing the mushrooms thoroughly. If using fresh mushrooms, clean them of impurities and cut them into large pieces. If using canned mushrooms, rinse them lightly under cold water to remove excess salt.
2. Place the mushrooms in a pot of water and add salt and pepper. Boil them over medium heat for 20 minutes. This step is essential to soften the mushrooms and enhance their flavor.
3. After boiling, remove the mushrooms from the water and let them drain in a colander. It is important to drain them well to avoid a too-wet cream. Allow them to cool completely.

Preparing the Cream Cheese

1. In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese. Use a fork to crumble it slightly. This will become the creamy base of your dish.
2. Add the sour cream and, using a hand mixer, blend well until you achieve a smooth mixture.
3. Gradually incorporate the milk, mixing continuously. This step will help achieve a finer and lighter texture.
4. Finely chop the green onion and dill, adding them to the bowl. These fresh herbs will add a note of freshness and a vibrant taste to your cream.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence. The latter will bring a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your recipe.
6. Now it’s time to add the drained mushrooms and grated Parmesan. Mix everything with a spatula or wooden spoon, being careful not to break the mushrooms too much.

Refrigeration and Serving

1. Place the cream cheese with mushrooms in a covered container or bowl. Make sure it is well sealed to prevent the absorption of odors from the refrigerator.
2. Let the dish chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours. This resting time will allow the flavors to blend and intensify.
3. Serve the cream cheese with mushrooms on slices of toasted bread, salty crackers, or even as a filling for rolls or tarts. It is an excellent choice for brunch, a party, or simply as a delicious snack.

Serving Suggestions

For an even more enjoyable culinary experience, I recommend serving it alongside a cup of hot tea or creamy yogurt. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can add a touch of elegance to your meal.

Variations and Tips

- If you want to add a flavor note, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese.
- Replace the mushrooms with olives or bell peppers for a different vegetarian option.
- You can add a teaspoon of crushed garlic for a more intense flavor.
- If you like spicy flavors, add a pinch of chili powder or chili flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, fresh mushrooms are excellent! Boil them according to the instructions and follow the rest of the recipe.

2. How can I make the cream less dense?
Add more milk or sour cream until you reach the desired consistency.

3. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, cream cheese with mushrooms is rich in protein and provides essential nutrients from herbs and vegetables.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of cream cheese with mushrooms contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Cottage cheese provides necessary proteins for a balanced diet, while mushrooms are an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants.

This cream cheese with mushrooms recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavors and textures that complement each other perfectly. So, don’t hesitate to try it and personalize it with your favorite ingredients. Savor every bite and enjoy your culinary indulgence!