Black panini with mushrooms and dried greens

Captivating Recipe for Black Panini with Mushrooms and Dried Herbs

Welcome to the world of panini delights! Today, I will guide you step by step to create a delicious recipe for black panini, enriched with mushrooms and dried herbs. These wonderful little breads are not only tasty but also healthy, thanks to whole ingredients and intense flavors. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, breakfast, or snack, these panini will delight your senses and bring a smile to your face.

The History of Panini

Over time, panini have evolved from simple toasted bread to sophisticated dishes, enjoyed all over the world. Each region has added a personal touch to its recipes, enriching the diversity and richness of this dish. Today, I present to you a unique version that combines the slightly crispy texture of black bread with a delicious filling of mushrooms and greens.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
- Number of servings: 4 panini

Necessary Ingredients

To prepare these black panini with mushrooms and herbs, you will need the following ingredients:

- 50 g dried mushroom powder (you can use shiitake, porcini, or champignon mushrooms) – these add a deep flavor and a rich nutritional profile.
- 1 tablespoon dried herb powder (basil, oregano, or thyme) – these will enhance the taste of your breads.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – this will provide a rich flavor and help achieve a crispy crust.
- 100 ml warm water – water activates the yeast, allowing the dough to rise perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt – essential for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
- Whole wheat flour, as needed – to obtain an elastic and easy-to-shape dough.
- 1 cube (25 g) fresh yeast – the key ingredient for making the bread rise.
- 1 teaspoon sugar – helps activate the yeast and adds a slightly sweet note.

Step by Step: Preparing the Panini

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, add the yeast and sugar. Pour in warm water (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast) and stir gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active!

2. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, dried mushroom powder, dried herb powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well with a spatula or wooden spoon.

3. Adding Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Add the olive oil as well. Start mixing the ingredients with a fork or your hands until the dough begins to form.

4. Kneading: Transfer the dough to a clean, floured surface. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but don’t overdo it, as you want a slightly moist dough.

5. Letting the Dough Rise: Form a ball from the dough and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it sit in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough doubles in size.

6. Shaping the Panini: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto the surface and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a panini (an oval or rectangular shape), ensuring they have an even thickness.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the panini on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for another 15-20 minutes. Then, place the tray in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.

8. Cooling: Once the panini are done, remove them from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool. This step will help maintain the crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These black panini with mushrooms and herbs are perfect served warm, alongside a fresh salad or with a portion of hummus. Try filling them with goat cheese or melted mozzarella for an extra flavor boost! You can also enjoy them with a vegetable soup or a spicy tomato sauce for a delightful culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of dried mushrooms?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the amount of water in the recipe, as fresh mushrooms contain more moisture.

2. How can I store the panini?
You can store the panini in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze them to enjoy later.

3. Can I use white flour instead of whole flour?
Of course! White flour will provide a softer texture, but the recipe will still be delicious.

Nutritional Benefits

These black panini are not only delicious but also nutritious. Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber, and dried mushrooms are an excellent source of protein and antioxidants. They contribute to maintaining a healthy immune system and aid in digestion.

Possible Variations

- You can try adding sesame or flax seeds to the dough for an extra crunch.
- Experiment with different types of dried herbs, such as dill or parsley, to modify the final flavor.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add garlic powder to the dry ingredient mixture.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking! The taste of these black panini with mushrooms and dried herbs will surely be a pleasant surprise for everyone who enjoys them. I wish you good cooking and bon appétit!