Bread pudding with mushrooms

Mushroom bread pudding is a savory dish, perfect for those who want to enjoy a hearty and nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. This recipe is ideal for ovo-lacto vegetarians, but it will be appreciated by anyone who loves rich flavors and pleasant textures. Start your culinary adventure with this delicious, easy-to-make pudding!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 200 g bread (stale bread or baguette is ideal)
- 300 g mushrooms (champignon, shiitake, or a combination)
- 1 large onion
- 3 eggs
- 200 ml milk
- 100 g cheese (feta or cheddar, for a stronger flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Cut the bread into cubes of about 2 cm. If you want a crunchier texture, let the bread dry out a bit before using it.

2. Clean and finely chop the mushrooms and onion. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped mushrooms and continue cooking for 7-10 minutes, until the mushrooms release their water and become golden. Season with salt and pepper.

3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the cubed cheese and mix well.

4. Add the bread cubes and the mushroom mixture to the bowl with the eggs. Make sure all the bread is well soaked in the mixture. Let it sit for 10 minutes, so the bread absorbs the liquid.

5. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or butter. Pour the mixture into the dish and level the surface.

6. Bake the pudding in the oven for 30 minutes, or until it becomes golden and firm to the touch. Check with a knife; if it comes out clean, the pudding is ready.

7. Let the pudding rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh and appealing look.

Helpful suggestions:

- You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for a more colorful and vitamin-packed version.
- If you want a stronger flavor, experiment with different types of cheese or add herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Mushroom bread pudding can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside a fresh salad.

This recipe is not only an excellent way to use up leftover bread but also an opportunity to experiment with healthy and delicious ingredients. Enjoy every serving of mushroom bread pudding with your loved ones, turning a simple meal into an unforgettable culinary experience!