Mushrooms in cheese crust

Mushrooms in Cheese Crust

Who can resist a dish as savory and comforting as mushrooms in a cheese crust? This simple and quick recipe adds a touch of elegance to your table, perfect for both a family dinner and a gathering with friends. The mushrooms, rich in umami, blend perfectly with the intense aroma of garlic and the creamy texture of melted cheese. Let’s begin this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh mushrooms (preferably champignon or cremini)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 250 g cheese (choose a cheese with good melting properties, such as gouda or emmental)
- Salt to taste

History and Context
Mushrooms are considered a versatile ingredient in the kitchen, with a long history of use in various culinary cultures. They are not only delicious but also healthy, being excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The combination with cheese, an ingredient that has been used for centuries in various dishes, transforms this dish into an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
- Start by washing the mushrooms under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities, then dry them with a paper towel. If the mushrooms have thicker stems, you can trim them slightly for uniformity.
- Peel the garlic cloves and gently crush them with the flat side of a knife to release the aroma.

2. Arranging the Mushrooms:
- Place the mushrooms in a clay dish or a glass baking dish. These types of dishes help distribute heat evenly during baking.

3. Meeting the Olive Oil:
- Add the olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle salt to taste. Mix with your hands or a spatula to ensure that each mushroom is evenly coated.

4. Adding the Garlic:
- Mix the crushed garlic with the mushrooms, allowing its aroma to infuse well.

5. Initial Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the mushrooms for 20 minutes. This step is essential to soften the mushrooms and release their delicious juices.

6. Preparing the Cheese:
- Meanwhile, slice the cheese thinly. A vegetable peeler is ideal for achieving even slices. These slices will melt beautifully, creating a delicious crust.

7. Completing the Dish:
- After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and cover the mushrooms with a generous layer of cheese. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is nicely browned and crispy.

8. Serving:
- Once the mushrooms are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with a bit of chopped fresh parsley for a splash of color and freshness.

Helpful Tips:
- If you want to add a spicy note, you can sprinkle a little crushed chili pepper over the mushrooms before baking.
- Instead of cheese, you can use feta or mozzarella for a lighter and different option.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and lemon dressing.

Nutritional Benefits:
Mushrooms are low in calories, high in fiber, and contain antioxidants that can help strengthen the immune system. Additionally, cheese adds protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen mushrooms?
It is recommended to use fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor and better texture, but you can also use frozen mushrooms if necessary. Make sure to thaw and dry them well before cooking.

- What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano, which pair perfectly with mushrooms. Additionally, adding pancetta or crispy bacon will enhance the flavor.

- What can these mushrooms be paired with?
Cheese crusted mushrooms are excellent as an appetizer but can also be served as a side dish for grilled meat or alongside mashed potatoes or a serving of pasta.

In the end, don’t forget to enjoy every bite of these delicious mushrooms. Cooking is an art, but also a form of expression, and recipes like this help us connect with our loved ones. Enjoy your meal!