Stuffed mushrooms

Appetizers are undoubtedly the stars of any festive meal or gathering with friends. Today, I will share with you a delicious recipe for stuffed mushrooms that combines the rich flavors of bacon with the freshness of parsley and the savory taste of cheese. These baked stuffed mushrooms are perfect for both an elegant dinner and a casual party, making them a highly appreciated warm appetizer by guests.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4 (10-12 mushrooms)

Necessary ingredients:
- 10-12 suitable mushrooms (champignon mushrooms are most recommended, but you can also opt for portobello mushrooms for a more rustic look)
- 100 g bacon (choose quality bacon with a moderate fat content for an intense flavor)
- 60 g grated cheese (you can use cow cheese for a milder taste or cheddar for a stronger aroma)
- 3 sprigs of fresh parsley (ideal for adding a touch of freshness)
- 2 cloves of garlic (undoubtedly, garlic will enhance the flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (for an extra boost of flavor and aroma)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Use a damp cloth to remove dirt, as washing them under water can make the mushrooms absorb water and become soft. Carefully remove the stems of the mushrooms, keeping the caps intact, as these will be filled.

2. Preparing the filling: In a pan, sauté the diced bacon until crispy. This will add a pleasant texture and rich flavor. Once the bacon is ready, add the finely chopped mushroom stems, crushed garlic, and chopped parsley. Sauté the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the mushroom stems become tender.

3. Adding the cheese: After the mixture has cooled slightly, add the grated cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything very well, ensuring that each ingredient is evenly distributed.

4. Filling the mushrooms: Using a teaspoon, fill each mushroom cap with the bacon, mushroom, and cheese mixture. Do not overfill, leaving a little space for the filling to expand during baking.

5. Baking: Place the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish. Drizzle each mushroom with a teaspoon of olive oil to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake for 25 minutes or until the mushrooms are golden and the cheese melts.

6. Serving: Once the mushrooms are ready, let them cool slightly before serving. You can garnish them with a few fresh parsley leaves for an attractive appearance. These stuffed mushrooms are excellent served warm but can also be delicious at room temperature.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the mushrooms are fresh, choosing those with firm caps and no spots.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to achieve unique flavors.
- If you are vegetarian, you can replace the bacon with smoked tofu or a mix of sautéed vegetables.
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add spices like paprika, oregano, or herbs de Provence to the filling mixture.

Delicious pairings: These stuffed mushrooms pair perfectly with a dry white wine or a blonde beer. You can also serve them alongside a fresh green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to balance the rich flavors of the appetizer.

Calories and nutritional benefits: One serving (3-4 stuffed mushrooms) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of bacon and cheese used. These mushrooms are a good source of protein, B vitamins, and antioxidants due to the fresh ingredients used.

In conclusion, stuffed mushrooms are a versatile and tasty appetizer, perfect for any occasion. Whether you prepare them for a gathering with friends or a special dinner, you will surely bring smiles to your guests' faces. Don't forget to experiment and put your personal touch on the recipe! Enjoy!