Stuffed mushrooms

Stuffed Mushrooms with Greens and Cheese - A Tasty Recipe for All Occasions

Are you looking for a delicious and quick appetizer? Stuffed mushrooms with greens and cheese are the perfect choice! This dish is not only tasty but also versatile, as it can be served hot or cold, at parties, festive meals, or simply when you want to treat yourself. Additionally, mushrooms are an excellent source of nutrients, being rich in vitamins and minerals.

Recipe History

Stuffed mushrooms have a long tradition in kitchens around the world. They have been used as an ingenious way to utilize available ingredients, and the combinations of fillings have evolved over time, reflecting the culinary culture of each region. Today, stuffed mushrooms are appreciated for their intense flavor and pleasant texture, making them a beloved appetizer for everyone.

Ingredients (for 4 servings)

- 500 g fresh mushrooms (preferably champignon mushrooms)
- 1 large onion
- 100 ml oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 teaspoon breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh greens (dill or parsley)
- 20 ml white wine (optional, for extra flavor)
- 40 g grated cheese (or another preferred type of cheese)

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Mushrooms
Start by washing the mushrooms well under cold running water. Make sure to clean them thoroughly, but avoid soaking them in water as they absorb moisture. Carefully remove the stems of the mushrooms and chop them finely. These will be used in the filling.

2. Sautéing the Onion
Peel and finely chop the onion. In a pan, heat 50 ml of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes translucent.

3. Adding the Mushroom Stems
Add the chopped mushroom stems to the pan. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the water released by the mushrooms evaporates completely. This step is essential to avoid a too-wet filling.

4. Preparing the Filling
Once the water has evaporated, remove the pan from the heat. Add salt, pepper to taste, breadcrumbs, and the finely chopped greens. Fresh dill provides a wonderful aroma, but you can also use parsley or a combination of both. Let the filling cool slightly.

5. Filling the Mushrooms
Lightly salt the caps of the mushrooms to enhance the flavor. Using a teaspoon, fill each mushroom with the cooled mixture, being careful not to overfill them.

6. Baking
Place the stuffed mushrooms in a greased baking dish with the remaining oil. Sprinkle grated cheese on top, which will create a golden and delicious crust when baked. Put the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C (moderate heat) for about 30 minutes.

7. Finishing Touch
After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and drizzle the mushrooms with white wine and the juices they released. This will add extra moisture and flavor.

8. Serving
Garnished with fresh greens, the stuffed mushrooms are ready to serve! You can offer them warm or cold as an appetizer. They pair perfectly with a green salad or a yogurt-based sauce.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Mushrooms: Opt for firm, fresh mushrooms without spots or signs of mold. If you want a more intense flavor, you can choose shiitake or portobello mushrooms.

- Variations of the Filling: Although this recipe uses dill, you can experiment with other herbs, such as basil or oregano. You can also add feta or ricotta cheese for a creamier filling.

- Preventing Moisture: Make sure to cook your mushrooms until all the water has evaporated. This will ensure a well-bound filling and a pleasant texture.

- Creative Serving: You can serve the mushrooms on a platter with a selection of sauces – a garlic yogurt sauce or a spicy tomato sauce will perfectly complement this appetizer.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This stuffed mushroom recipe is relatively easy to digest, having approximately 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and fiber, while the greens add essential vitamins, making this dish a healthy choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen mushrooms?
While it's recommended to use fresh mushrooms for better texture, frozen mushrooms can be a good alternative. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

- How can I store leftover mushrooms?
Stuffed mushrooms store well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

- What drinks pair well with these mushrooms?
A dry white wine or a light beer pairs excellently with the flavors of this recipe. Additionally, a light gin-based cocktail or an aperitif with prosecco could be an inspired choice.

Conclusion

Stuffed mushrooms with greens and cheese are not just a delicious appetizer but also a way to bring a touch of joy to your table. With simple and quick preparation, this dish will surely be appreciated by everyone who tastes it. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience!