Mushroom and Chicken Meatloaf

Mushroom and Chicken Pâté: A Delicious and Surprising Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Who doesn't love a rich and savory pâté at a festive table? This mushroom and chicken pâté recipe is a refined alternative to traditional liver recipes, bringing an authentic flavor and pleasant texture. Even though I initially wanted to use chicken liver, I discovered that my freezer had other plans. The result was surprisingly good, and I believe you will appreciate this unique combination too!

The History of Pâté

Pâté has historically been a dish that symbolizes celebration and family gatherings. Typically, it is made from chicken or pork liver, but there are countless adaptations. This unique recipe with mushrooms and chicken breast will quickly become your favorite, not only for its taste but also for its versatility. It is perfect not only for Easter but also for Sunday meals or picnics.

Ingredients

- 200 g chicken breast
- 500 g mushrooms
- 1/2 carrot
- 2-3 green onions
- 5 eggs + 1 yolk
- 50 g grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Oil for greasing
- Wheat or breadcrumbs for lining the pan

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the mushrooms
Carefully wash the mushrooms to remove any impurities. Peel them and boil in a pot of water for about 30 minutes. This will help eliminate bitterness and make the mushrooms more tender.

2. Boiling the meat
In another pot, boil the chicken breast, pork liver (if you choose to use it), and carrot. Boil until the meat is tender and the carrot softens. This step is essential for achieving a fine texture and rich flavor.

3. Preparing the onions
Meanwhile, clean and slice the green onions into thin rings. Heat a pan with a little olive oil and sauté the onions until they become translucent. This will add a special flavor to the mixture.

4. Chopping the ingredients
After the mushrooms and meat are boiled, drain them. Use a food processor to chop the mushrooms along with the sautéed onions. Place the mixture in a large bowl.

5. Preparing the meat
The boiled meat (chicken and liver, if you choose to add it) and boiled carrot should be placed in a blender. Blend until you obtain a fine paste, but not too homogenized, to keep a bit of texture. Add this mixture to the bowl with the mushrooms.

6. Combining the ingredients
Beat the 5 eggs well in another bowl and add them to the mushroom and meat mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and add the finely chopped dill. Mix everything well to integrate the ingredients.

7. Adding the flour
To achieve a more compact texture, gradually add the flour. Mix until the composition becomes homogeneous and easy to shape. This step is essential for keeping the pâté together.

8. Preparing the pan
Grease a loaf pan with oil and line it with semolina or breadcrumbs to prevent sticking. This will facilitate the removal of the pâté after baking.

9. Baking
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the pâté for about 50 minutes or until it turns golden and is well cooked.

10. Preparing the crust
10 minutes before removing the pâté from the oven, mix the egg yolk with the grated parmesan and spread it evenly on top. This layer will give a crunchy and flavorful crust.

Serving and Suggestions

Once the pâté is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a side of vegetables. It is also delicious with a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream on top.

Variations and Useful Tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with other types of meat, such as turkey or rabbit, to achieve a different flavor. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the texture and taste.
- Suitable drinks: The pâté pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a light beer, which will complement the flavors of the dish.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned mushrooms? It is recommended to use fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor, but in an emergency, canned mushrooms can be an option.
- How can I store the pâté? The pâté can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat and eggs, while the mushrooms provide an important supply of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, dill is an excellent source of antioxidants. The flour and eggs contribute to a pleasant and satisfying texture.

Conclusion

This mushroom and chicken pâté is a recipe that combines tradition with innovation, offering you a delicious and healthy meal. Not only will it delight your taste buds, but it will also bring a touch of joy to every meal. It may even become your go-to recipe for holidays and beyond. Give it a try and enjoy every bite!