Mushrooms in a jar

Mushrooms in a Jar - A Winter Delight

Who doesn't love the aroma of fresh mushrooms, brought to the plate straight from the forest? Preserving mushrooms in a jar not only helps us enjoy their savory taste throughout the winter but is also an excellent way to add a touch of naturalness and health to our meals. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to obtain delicious mushrooms, ready to be used in salads, stews, soups, or pizza.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: variable, depending on the size of the jars

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh mushrooms (I recommend wild mushrooms for an intense flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper (optional)
- Clean and sterilized jars (preferably 400-500 ml)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Use a damp cloth or a soft brush to remove dirt. Avoid washing them under running water, as mushrooms absorb liquid quickly and lose their flavor. Cut the mushrooms into larger pieces, about 2-3 cm, to maintain their crunchy texture and prevent them from breaking down during the preservation process.

2. Frying the mushrooms: In a non-stick pan (I prefer a Hot-pan), add the oil and let it heat up a bit. Add the cut mushrooms and stir them carefully. Fry them on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes. The mushrooms will release water, and you need to tend to them patiently to achieve a pleasant texture. Add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Preparing the jars: While the mushrooms are frying, prepare the jars. Make sure they are clean and sterilized. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or by washing them in the dishwasher at high temperatures.

4. Filling the jars: Once the mushrooms are fried, fill each jar with warm mushrooms, leaving about 1 cm of space to the top of the jar. This step is essential to allow air expansion during the boiling process.

5. Boiling the jars: In a large pot, place the filled jars and add water up to the lid level. Cover the pot with a lid and let the water boil for about 30 minutes. It is important not to overcrowd the jars to allow water circulation. After the water has reduced by almost half, remove the jars from the water and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

6. Storage: Once the jars have cooled, ensure they are well sealed. Label them with the date and contents, then store them in a dark and cool place, such as a pantry.

Helpful tips:
- If using wild mushrooms, make sure they are edible. If in doubt, consult a mushroom expert.
- You can add extra spices, such as garlic or herbs, to enhance the mushroom flavor.
- Don't throw away the leftover boiling water! You can use it as a base for soups or sauces.

Possible variations:
- Instead of wild mushrooms, you can use champignon or shiitake mushrooms, depending on your preferences.
- Add a few slices of hot pepper for a spicier taste.

Delicious combinations:
- These preserved mushrooms are perfect for winter salads, alongside feta cheese and nuts.
- You can add the mushrooms to a meat stew or pasta sauces for an extra flavor boost.
- Served as a side dish for roasts, jarred mushrooms add a refined touch to your meal.

Nutritional benefits:
Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based protein, rich in B vitamins, D, and minerals such as potassium and selenium. They are also low in calories, making them ideal for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen mushrooms for this recipe? It is recommended to use fresh mushrooms for better flavor and texture.
- How long can I keep the jarred mushrooms? If properly preserved, mushrooms can be kept for several years, but it is best to consume them within a year.

In conclusion, jarred mushrooms are an excellent choice to bring the taste of summer to winter meals. I wish you success in preparing this delicious recipe and don't forget to enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!