Mushroom nests

Mushroom Nests – Savory Appetizer

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to our kitchen, where today we present you with a delicious and easy-to-make recipe: mushroom nests! This appetizer is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply to indulge in a casual dinner. The combination of mushrooms and chicken breast, wrapped in crispy bacon slices, is sure to delight everyone's taste buds. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into something truly special!

A brief history

Mushroom nests are a recipe that has evolved over time, inspired by the culinary traditions of appetizers made with local and seasonal ingredients. This recipe combines the rich flavor of mushrooms with the tender texture of chicken, often served in an elegant form, perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare them for a celebration or a weekend gathering, these nests will surely bring a festive air to your table.

Ingredients

- 500 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or forest mushrooms)
- 1/2 chicken breast (about 250 g), diced
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 100 g bacon slices (or pancetta, for a stronger flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons water

Necessary utensils

- A frying pan for sautéing
- A spatula
- Aluminum molds or small ceramic dishes for nests
- A baking tray
- A preheated oven

Preparation method

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Wash them under cold water, then chop them finely. They will add moisture and a rich flavor to the mixture. Also, dice the chicken breast into small cubes. Finely chop the onion and crush the garlic. The fresh parsley will add a fresh note to the dish, so make sure it is finely chopped.

2. Sautéing the onion
In a frying pan, add the olive oil and a little water. Place the pan over medium heat and add the onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. It is important not to brown it too much, as we want to keep a sweet aroma.

3. Adding the chicken and mushrooms
Once the onion has softened, add the diced chicken breast and chopped mushrooms. Mix well and let it simmer. Cook until the mushrooms release their juice and it almost evaporates completely. This is when the flavor concentrates, so don't rush this step!

4. Seasoning the mixture
When the water in the pan has almost disappeared, add the crushed garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

5. Adding the eggs and parsley
Once the mixture has cooled, add the beaten eggs and chopped parsley. These ingredients will bind the mixture and give it a pleasant texture. Mix everything until homogeneous.

6. Preparing the molds
Preheat the oven to 180°C. While it heats up, grease the aluminum molds with a little oil. Then, line the inside of them with bacon slices, letting the slices hang slightly over the edges. This step will add a crispy crust and a delicious flavor to the dish.

7. Filling the molds
Fill each mold with the mushroom mixture, leaving a little space to allow the bacon to close on top. If using small ceramic dishes, they will add an elegant touch to the serving.

8. Baking
Place the molds in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon becomes golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread in the kitchen will delight your senses!

Serving

Mushroom nests are served warm but are just as delicious cold. You can accompany them with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill, which will add a refreshing touch. They are also perfect alongside a glass of dry white wine or a light cocktail to complete the culinary experience.

Practical tips

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or porcini, for a more intense flavor. You can also add grated cheese, like Parmesan, to the mixture for an even richer taste.
- Make-ahead: These nests can be prepared a day in advance, just bake them before serving. They can also be frozen and reheated in the oven when you want to enjoy them.
- Finding the ideal molds: If you don’t have aluminum molds, ceramic dishes are an excellent choice, and muffin tins can also work.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is a healthy alternative and will fit perfectly in this recipe.

- What other herbs can I use?
Instead of parsley, you can add dill or basil to give the dish a different aroma.

- How long can I keep the nests?
They can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

Now that you have gone through this delicious mushroom nests recipe step by step, you are ready to impress anyone with your culinary skills! Don’t forget to enjoy every bite and share this recipe with friends and family. Bon appétit!