Pleurotus mushrooms with parmesan and chili pepper

Oyster Mushrooms with Parmesan and Chili Pepper: A Spicy Delicacy for Flavor Lovers

Who can resist a plate of fragrant mushrooms, enriched with parmesan and a dash of chili pepper? This simple yet refined recipe, perfect for an unforgettable dinner or a quick lunch, will transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. Oyster mushrooms, also known as orecchiette mushrooms due to their shape, are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let's see how we can prepare them step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g oyster mushrooms
- Coarse salt
- 1 large cube of butter (about 80 g)
- ¼ onion (preferably white or yellow)
- 1 green chili pepper (adjustable to taste)
- Parmesan (freshly grated, to taste)
- 1 handful of freshly chopped parsley
- Salt and freshly ground pepper

Preparation:

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by cleaning the oyster mushrooms. Use a damp cloth or a soft brush to remove dirt. Cut off the woody part of the stems, and for those with larger caps, you can cut them in half to ensure even cooking. Place the mushrooms in a pot of salted water and let them boil for 10 minutes. This step will help improve the texture and flavors, and the mushrooms will become more tender.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the mushrooms are boiling, finely chop the onion and chili pepper. Be careful with the chili! I recommend wearing gloves or washing your hands well after chopping it to avoid a burning sensation. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use only half of the chili or even omit it completely.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter cube over low heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and let it sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. It is important not to brown it but to cook it slowly to preserve its sweetness.

4. Adding the mushrooms: After the onion is ready, add the boiled mushrooms to the skillet. Cook everything over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will allow the mushrooms to absorb the flavors of the butter and onion.

5. Finalizing the dish: Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the chopped chili pepper and freshly chopped parsley. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serving: Serve the mushrooms warm, generously sprinkled with freshly grated parmesan. You can also add a few parsley leaves for a more attractive appearance.

Practical tips:

- Choose fresh mushrooms: When buying mushrooms, make sure they are firm and blemish-free. Avoid mushrooms that appear dry or have a soft texture.
- Parmesan: Use freshly grated parmesan for a more intense flavor. If you don't have parmesan, you can try another type of hard cheese, but the flavor will be different.
- Variations: If you want a more complex vegetarian dish, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or finely chopped carrots. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or oregano.
- Serving: These mushrooms are excellent as an appetizer but can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meat or on a slice of toasted bread for a delicious bruschetta.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of mushrooms? Yes, you can replace oyster mushrooms with champignon or shiitake, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I make the recipe less spicy? Reduce the amount of chili pepper or use bell pepper to add flavor without intensifying the spiciness.
- Is this recipe healthy? Oyster mushrooms are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a healthy choice for a balanced meal.

Nutritional benefits:

Oyster mushrooms are an excellent source of vitamin D, vitamin B, iron, and antioxidants. Additionally, they are low in calories, making them ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. A serving of 250 g of boiled mushrooms has about 50-70 calories, depending on the preparation method.

Pair these mushrooms with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade with mint to complete the culinary experience. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or a main dish, oyster mushrooms with parmesan and chili pepper will delight you with every bite. Take the time to enjoy this delicious recipe and don't forget to share your impressions with your loved ones!