Stuffed Breaded Mushrooms

Breaded stuffed mushrooms are an excellent choice for any occasion, from an elegant dinner with friends to a family gathering. This dish not only brings a delicious taste but also an attractive appearance on the table. The mushrooms, with their unique texture, perfectly blend with the filling of cheese and ham, while the crispy breadcrumb crust adds a pleasant contrast. Let's venture into this culinary process step by step!

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g large champignon mushrooms
- 150 g cheese (preferably a well-melting type)
- 100 g pressed ham
- 2 eggs
- 100 g flour
- 150 g breadcrumbs
- salt to taste
- oil for frying
- a few toothpicks

Utensils

- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- A deep frying pan
- A bowl for eggs
- A plate for flour
- A plate for breadcrumbs
- Absorbent paper towels

Nutritional information

This stuffed mushroom recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, which help maintain the health of the nervous system, as well as minerals like selenium. The cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, while the pressed ham adds extra flavor and protein. Although this appetizer is relatively high in calories due to frying, when consumed in moderation, it can be integrated into a balanced diet.

Preparation

1. Cleaning the mushrooms: Start by cleaning the mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove impurities. Avoid washing them under running water, as mushrooms absorb water, which will make them mushy.

2. Removing the stems: Using a sharp knife, remove the stems of the mushrooms. You can save these stems to add to a soup or stew, so nothing from this delicious ingredient goes to waste.

3. Preparing the filling: Cut the cheese and ham into small cubes. Mix them in a bowl, ensuring they are well distributed.

4. Filling the mushrooms: In the caps of the mushrooms, add a suitable amount of the cheese and ham mixture. Then, cover each filling with a bit more cheese to create a melted and savory crust.

5. Folding the mushrooms: Join two caps of stuffed mushrooms together and secure them with a toothpick to keep them together during frying.

6. Preparing for frying: In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt. Prepare three plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dip each pair of mushrooms first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated.

Frying the mushrooms

7. Frying: In a deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the mushrooms (you can check the temperature by adding a small piece of bread - if it sizzles, the oil is ready). Fry the stuffed mushrooms until they are golden and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

8. Removing and draining: After the mushrooms are fried, remove them with a spatula and place them on absorbent paper towels to eliminate excess oil. Remove the toothpicks after they have cooled slightly.

9. Serving: Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in tomato baskets or on a nice platter. This detail will not only give them a special appearance but also a fresh taste.

Serving suggestions and variations

- Side dishes: These delicious mushrooms pair perfectly with a yogurt dip or a tomato sauce for extra flavor.
- Variations: Instead of ham, you can use crispy bacon or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also add spices or herbs to the filling, such as basil or dill, to further customize the recipe.
- Drinks: These stuffed mushrooms pair excellently with a glass of dry white wine or craft beer, which will complement the intense flavors of the dish.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of mushrooms? Yes, you can experiment with portobello or shiitake mushrooms for a different flavor.
- Can I prepare them a day in advance? It is recommended to prepare them fresh to enjoy the crispy texture. However, you can fill them a day ahead and fry them just before serving.
- How can I avoid them becoming oily? Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the mushrooms and do not overcrowd the pan to allow for even frying.

These breaded stuffed mushrooms are an extraordinary option to impress guests or to treat yourself to a delicious appetizer. Whether served as a snack or as part of a festive meal, they are sure to bring smiles and compliments to everyone’s faces. Enjoy your meal!