Garlic mushrooms

Oven-Baked Chanterelle Mushrooms with Garlic

Fresh chanterelle mushrooms, lovingly foraged from the forest, are a true culinary delight. This simple and flavorful recipe will take you on a memorable taste journey, where the natural flavors of the ingredients blend perfectly to create an unforgettable dish. Whether you are enjoying a family meal or preparing a special dinner, oven-baked chanterelle mushrooms with garlic are the ideal choice!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g fresh chanterelle mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon of Delikat (or your favorite spice mix)
- White pepper to taste
- 50 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 200 ml water
- 6-7 cloves of garlic (preferably smaller)
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe History
Mushrooms have been part of human diets for centuries, providing not only a unique taste but also significant nutritional benefits. This simple recipe, which highlights the natural flavors, is a wonderful way to savor the richness of the forests. Chanterelle mushrooms, with their delicate texture and refined flavor, are perfect for pairing with garlic, an ingredient that enhances their aroma.

Preparing the Mushrooms
1. Cleaning the mushrooms: Start by washing the mushrooms thoroughly under cold running water. It is important to remove all impurities, as even the smallest dirt can affect the final taste of the dish. Use a soft brush or a damp cloth to clean the mushrooms without damaging them.

2. Assembling the ingredients: Place the cleaned mushrooms in a ceramic dish. This type of dish is ideal as it retains heat evenly, helping to cook the ingredients uniformly.

3. Seasoning: Sprinkle a teaspoon of Delikat and white pepper to taste over the mushrooms. These spices will add extra flavor, highlighting the natural taste of the mushrooms.

4. Adding oil and water: Pour 50 ml of oil over the mushrooms, followed by 200 ml of water. The oil will help caramelize the mushrooms, while the water will create steam, contributing to even cooking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, then place it in the oven for 30 minutes. This step is essential for allowing the mushrooms to cook and soften, developing their flavors.

6. Preparing the garlic: Meanwhile, peel the garlic cloves and crush them lightly. The garlic will add an intense and aromatic flavor to your dish.

7. Finishing the cooking: After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and add the crushed garlic on top of the mushrooms. Gently toss the mushrooms to combine them with the garlic. Let everything cook for another 10-15 minutes, uncovered, to allow the garlic to release its flavors and meld with the mushrooms.

8. Serving: After taking the dish out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. The mushrooms are best served warm, accompanied by either cold or warm polenta, depending on your preference. This combination will bring a delicious contrast of textures and temperatures.

Practical Tips
- Choosing mushrooms: Make sure to select fresh mushrooms, free of spots or signs of damage. Young and firm mushrooms will yield the best results.
- Vegetarian option: If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute olive oil with coconut oil for an exotic flavor.
- Frozen mushrooms: If you have foraged more mushrooms than you can use, do not hesitate to freeze them. Ensure they are well cleaned and dried before placing them in freezer bags.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other mushrooms?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of mushrooms, but make sure they are edible and suitable for cooking.

2. How can I store polenta?
Polenta can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a little water to keep it soft.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe is vegan as long as you use vegetable oil and do not add cheese or other dairy products.

Nutritional Benefits
Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins (especially B and D), and essential minerals. They contain antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system and maintain overall health.

Serving Suggestions
To add extra flavor, you can serve the mushrooms with a tomato and onion salad or with a yogurt sauce flavored with dill. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement this dish, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.

Possible Variations
If you want to experiment, try adding some slices of hot peppers for a bit of spice or some black olives for a more intense flavor. You can even combine the mushrooms with other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, for a heartier dish.

Enjoy your oven-baked chanterelle mushrooms with garlic, a simple yet flavorful recipe full of tradition! Savor every bite and let yourself be carried away by the pleasant memories of the forests and family meals.