Mioritic stuffed mushrooms

Mioritic stuffed mushrooms

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

What could be more delightful than enjoying a plate of stuffed mushrooms, fragrant and delicious? This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the basic ingredients of our cuisine with a dash of creativity, offering a perfect appetizer or a light main course. Additionally, stuffed mushrooms are an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy and nutritious dish, full of vitamins and minerals.

The history of stuffed mushrooms is fascinating. They have been prepared in various forms and combinations over time, becoming a cherished dish in many cultures. From simple mushrooms filled with cheese or meat to more sophisticated versions with various spices, each recipe carries the imprint of local tradition. Today, I propose a Mioritic version that blends the flavors of our families with local ingredients.

Ingredients:
- 8 large mushrooms (champignon)
- 100 g goat cheese (or sheep, buffalo)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 teaspoon sweet or hot paprika (to taste)
- 2-3 green onions
- a few sprigs of fresh dill
- 1 tomato
- salt, pepper (to taste)
- garnish: lovage or fresh parsley leaves

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Gently remove impurities from the surface with a damp cloth. Then, remove the stems, being careful to keep them intact, as we will use them in the filling. Place the mushroom caps and stems on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the mushrooms to taste, and drizzle them with a bit of olive oil. This step will help enhance the flavors of the mushrooms during baking.

3. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the goat cheese (whether from goat, sheep, or buffalo milk) with sour cream to obtain a creamy paste. Add a teaspoon of sweet or hot paprika, depending on your preferences. Add the chopped green onions and diced tomato. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

4. Filling the mushrooms: Using a spoon, fill the caps of the mushrooms with the cheese mixture. Be generous to ensure each mushroom has a rich and delicious filling. Top with a few thin slices of tomato for added flavor and a touch of freshness.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 180-200°C). Place the tray with mushrooms in the oven and let them bake for 25-30 minutes. You will know they are ready when the mushrooms become tender and the cheese on top is slightly browned.

6. Decorating and serving: After removing the tray from the oven, let the mushrooms cool slightly. You can decorate the dish with fresh lovage or parsley leaves, adding a touch of color and freshness. Serve the stuffed mushrooms warm, alongside a green salad for a pleasant contrast.

Practical tip: If you want to enrich the flavor of the filling, you can add some chopped olives or ground nuts. These will bring a crunchy texture and a unique taste.

Nutritional benefits: Mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants, being very low in calories. Goat cheese is rich in protein and calcium, while sour cream adds a creamy note without being excessively caloric. A serving of stuffed mushrooms can have about 180-220 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a different flavor.

2. What can I use instead of goat cheese?
You can use feta cheese or cottage cheese, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store stuffed mushrooms?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven before serving.

4. What can I serve with stuffed mushrooms?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or with a side of mashed potatoes.

Possible variations: For a vegetarian version, you can replace the cheese with crumbled tofu or sautéed vegetables. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano to customize the flavor.

I hope this Mioritic stuffed mushroom recipe becomes a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy the cooking process and don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients to create a dish that reflects your tastes. Bon appétit!