Stuffed breaded mushrooms with cream cheese

Stuffed Breaded Mushrooms with Cream Cheese

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 5

Here’s a recipe that will add a touch of elegance and flavor to your table: stuffed breaded mushrooms with cream cheese. These crispy delights are perfect as an appetizer or snack and are easy to prepare, appealing to both adults and kids. They are also a great way to use fresh mushrooms and bring the flavors of summer to your table.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Mushrooms, especially those from the champignon family, have been cultivated and consumed throughout history, appreciated for their delicate taste and pleasant texture. Preparing stuffed mushrooms has become popular in international cuisine, being a versatile method to experiment with various fillings. This dish has evolved over time, and today there are countless variations, each with its charm.

Necessary Ingredients

- 800-1000 g fresh champignon mushrooms (about 20 small ones)
- 200 g cow's cheese
- 80 g cheese
- 4 eggs (2 for the filling, 2 for breading)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 green onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 100 g flour
- 120 g breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (about one glass)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Practical Tips for Ingredients

- Choose fresh, firm mushrooms without spots. Champignon mushrooms are ideal, but you can also use other types of mushrooms as per your preference.
- Cow's cheese adds a salty and creamy flavor, but you can experiment with goat cheese or feta for a different note.
- The cheese can be replaced with mozzarella for a more elastic and fluffy filling.
- Add spices like garlic powder or chili flakes to the filling for a bit of kick.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Wash the mushrooms under cold running water, making sure to remove any dirt. Remove the stems and let them drain well on a paper towel. This is an essential step as the mushrooms need to be dry to avoid becoming soggy during frying.

2. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, grate the cow's cheese and cheese. Add the finely chopped dill, green onions, and diced red bell pepper. Incorporate the 2 eggs, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well until you get a smooth cream.

3. Stuffing the mushrooms: Fill each mushroom with the cream cheese, making sure not to overfill. Pair two mushrooms together, removing any excess filling, and secure them with a toothpick.

4. Preparing for frying: Prepare 3 bowls: one with flour, another with the remaining 2 beaten eggs mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper, and the last one with breadcrumbs. Dip each pair of mushrooms in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs. This process ensures a crispy, golden crust.

5. Frying the mushrooms: Heat oil in a deep pan. When the oil is hot enough, fry the stuffed mushrooms for a few minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even frying.

6. Serving: Remove the fried mushrooms onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve them hot, alongside fresh tomatoes or a crunchy green salad. These mushrooms are also delicious cold, making them perfect for a picnic or a quick snack.

Possible Variations

- Instead of dill, you can use fresh basil or parsley to change the flavor of the filling.
- Add some finely chopped olives or a bit of garlic for a more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the stuffed mushrooms instead of frying them at 180°C for 20-25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I make these mushrooms vegan?
For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of flour and water or a vegan egg substitute and use vegan cheese.

3. Can they be frozen?
These mushrooms can be frozen before frying. Make sure to let them cool completely before putting them in the freezer.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

One serving of stuffed breaded mushrooms with cream cheese has about 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, while the filling provides essential proteins.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed breaded mushrooms pair perfectly with a garlic yogurt sauce or a spicy tomato sauce. You can also enjoy a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing cocktail to complete the culinary experience.

Happy cooking! These stuffed breaded mushrooms with cream cheese will surely become a favorite among your loved ones. And remember, every recipe is a story, and you are its author!