Mushroom appetizers

Delicious mushroom appetizers: A culinary delight of yeast dough

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 18 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 18 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

You may have already encountered a variety of appetizers, but those with mushrooms and yeast dough are truly special. They bring a mix of textures and flavors, and the filling of sautéed mushrooms with onion and garlic is simply irresistible. If you want to impress family or friends at a party or simply indulge in a delicious snack, this recipe is perfect!

The history of these appetizers reminds us of festive meals, where yeast dough dishes have always been appreciated. They are versatile and can be filled with various ingredients, from cheeses to meats, but today we will focus on a flavorful mushroom filling.

Ingredients for the dough:
- 200 g flour
- 100-125 ml warm milk
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 10 g fresh yeast
- salt, to taste
- egg for brushing

Ingredients for the filling:
- 5-6 mushrooms
- 1 onion
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons oil
- salt, pepper, to taste
- basil, fresh or dried

Dough preparation:

1. Activating the yeast:
In a bowl, add 100 ml of warm milk, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, and the fresh yeast. Sprinkle a little flour on top and let it rise for 10-15 minutes. You will notice that the yeast will begin to foam, which means it is active and ready to use.

2. Forming the dough:
In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the yeast mixture. Sprinkle a little salt (about 1/4 teaspoon) and start mixing gently with a spatula, bringing the flour from the edges toward the center. When the dough starts to form, knead it with your hands for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and non-sticky. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

3. First rising:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.

Filling preparation:

1. Preparing the mushrooms:
Wash the mushrooms and cut them into small cubes. Then, boil them in salted water for 5-7 minutes until soft. Drain them well.

2. Sautéing the onion:
In a pan, heat the 2 tablespoons of oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.

3. Cooking the filling:
Add the boiled mushrooms to the pan over the onion and let them sauté together for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Towards the end, add salt, pepper, and the sliced garlic. Continue to stir for another 2-3 minutes and then remove the pan from the heat. Let the filling cool.

Assembling the appetizers:

1. Forming the appetizers:
After the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on a clean surface and roll out the dough into a sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Use a glass with a wide mouth to cut circles from the dough.

2. Filling:
On each circle, place a teaspoon of the cooled mushroom filling. Be careful not to overfill, otherwise the appetizers will not close properly.

3. Shaping and brushing:
Pinch the edges of the dough circles together tightly. Use a fork, which you can dip in beaten egg, to press the edges and seal them. Place the appetizers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and brush them with the remaining egg to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

4. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180-200°C and place the tray in the oven for about 18 minutes or until the appetizers turn golden. Every oven is different, so it's good to check them after 15 minutes.

Serving:

Enjoy these mushroom appetizers both warm and cold. They are perfect as a snack during the day, but also as an appetizer for festive meals. I recommend serving them alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt garlic sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Tips and variations:

- Filling variations: You can experiment with different filling ingredients. Try feta cheese, olives, or ground meat for a different taste. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra flavor boost.
- Meat appetizers: If you want to add meat, you can combine the mushrooms with ground chicken or pork, sautéed together with the onion.
- Recommended drinks: These appetizers pair perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing citrus-based cocktail.

Nutritional benefits:

Mushrooms are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D, potassium, and fiber. They can help maintain a healthy immune system and support digestive health. Additionally, due to their low calorie content, mushroom appetizers are a good choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious snack without compromising their diet.

Approximate calories per serving: 120-150 kcal, depending on the filling chosen and the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use canned mushrooms?: Yes, you can use canned mushrooms, but make sure to drain them well before adding them to the filling.
- What if the dough doesn't rise?: Make sure the yeast is fresh and that the place where you let it rise is warm. If it's too cold, the dough will not rise properly.
- Can I prepare the appetizers a day in advance?: Yes, you can prepare the appetizers, keep them in the fridge, and then bake them before serving.

These mushroom appetizers are not only a delight but also a fantastic way to bring a touch of joy to any meal. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process. Bon appétit!