Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms

Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms Recipe - Vegetarian Food

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms is a delightful and nutritious recipe that combines the ancient grain amaranth with the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms. This dish is perfect for those seeking a gourmet experience while maintaining a health-conscious diet. The recipe is versatile, allowing for various mushroom types to suit your taste or availability. This introduction will guide you through the history, preparation tips, and nutritional benefits of this exquisite dish.

History

The use of amaranth as a staple grain dates back thousands of years to the Aztecs, who revered it for its nutritional properties and versatility. Wild mushrooms have been foraged and enjoyed worldwide, each region boasting its unique varieties. The combination of amaranth and wild mushrooms in this recipe is a modern culinary innovation that pays homage to ancient traditions and the bounty of the forest.

Ingredients

Cakes

0.5 oz (14 g) dried porcini mushrooms
1 cup amaranth grain
2 tbsp shallots
0.75 tsp salt
1 large egg
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh marjoram
extra virgin olive oil, as needed

Mushroom mixture

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 lb (454 g) wild mushrooms such as chanterelles or morels, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tbsp finely chopped shallots
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
0.5 cup dry white wine
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp coarsely chopped fresh marjoram
1 cup shaved parmigiano reggiano cheese

How to prepare

To make batter for Cakes: Pour 2 cups of boiling water over dried porcini and let them soak for 15 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, lift the mushrooms from the water. Carefully pour the mushroom water through a fine sieve into another container, discarding any sediment. Rinse the mushrooms again and chop them very finely. Set aside.
Place amaranth, shallots, salt, chopped mushrooms, and 1.5 cups of mushroom liquid in a medium-sized saucepan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to very low. Cook for 25 minutes or until the grain absorbs all the liquid. Transfer to a mixing bowl and let it cool. Stir in the egg, flour, and marjoram.

Mushroom mixture

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, season with salt, and cook, tossing from time to time, until the mushrooms release moisture and begin to brown. Add shallots and garlic, cook for 1 minute more, and add wine. Continue to cook until only a few tablespoons of liquid remain. Stir in butter and marjoram, and transfer to a bowl or saucepan. Keep warm while making the cakes.

Cakes

Pour a 0.13-inch layer of olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, drop in 2 tbsp-sized mounds of amaranth batter and flatten them with a fork into a pancake shape. Cook until browned on the bottoms, about 1 minute, flip, and brown the top. Repeat with the remaining batter until it is used up.
To serve, alternate layers of amaranth cakes and mushrooms on individual serving plates or a large platter. Top with shaved cheese and serve immediately.

Variations

Consider using different types of wild mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster, to explore new flavors. Quinoa can replace amaranth for a different texture. For a vegan version, omit the egg and cheese, using a flaxseed mixture and nutritional yeast as substitutes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, soak the dried porcini mushrooms as instructed to rehydrate them fully, enhancing their flavor. When cooking the amaranth, ensure it absorbs all the liquid for the right texture. For the mushroom mixture, allow the mushrooms to brown well, as this caramelization adds depth to the dish. Lastly, when frying the amaranth cakes, ensure the oil is hot enough to create a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the amaranth cakes and wild mushrooms with a side of mixed greens dressed with a simple vinaigrette to complement the earthy flavors of the dish. A glass of dry white wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include rehydrating dried mushrooms, simmering amaranth, sautéing mushrooms to achieve caramelization, and pan-frying amaranth cakes to perfection. Mastering these techniques will ensure a delicious outcome.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those who cannot find amaranth, quinoa or millet makes excellent substitutes. If dried porcini mushrooms are unavailable, any dried mushroom variety will work. Vegan substitutes for egg and cheese can be used for dietary restrictions.

Make Ahead Tips

The amaranth mixture can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making it easier to handle when forming cakes. The mushroom mixture can also be made in advance and reheated with a little added moisture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the amaranth cakes layered with the mushroom mixture on a rustic plate for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh marjoram leaves and a sprinkle of cheese for added visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with this dish, complementing its earthy and savory flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon provides a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover amaranth cakes and mushroom mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the microwave, adding a little water or olive oil to the mushrooms to keep them moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms contains approximately 250 calories, making it a suitable main course or a hearty side dish for calorie-conscious individuals.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms provides approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Amaranth itself is a source of complex carbohydrates, which are essential for energy and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Fats

This recipe contains healthy fats primarily from extra virgin olive oil and unsalted butter, contributing to the dish's richness and mouthfeel. A serving contains about 10 grams of fat, a moderate amount that fits well into a balanced diet.

Proteins

Amaranth is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Combined with the proteins from the egg and cheese, a serving of this dish provides approximately 15 grams of protein, supporting muscle health and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Amaranth is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. Wild mushrooms contribute additional nutrients, such as vitamin D and selenium. This dish is a nutritional powerhouse, supporting various bodily functions and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including gluten (from all-purpose flour), eggs, and dairy (from cheese). Those with sensitivities should consider appropriate substitutions.

Summary

Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms is a well-rounded dish, offering a balance of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, complete proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious choice for anyone looking to enjoy a gourmet meal without compromising on health.

Summary

Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms is a nutritious and flavorful dish that pays tribute to ancient grains and the natural bounty of wild mushrooms. With its balance of complex flavors, textures, and nutrients, it's a satisfying meal that appeals to both the health-conscious and the gourmet. Whether you're exploring ancient grains for the first time or looking for a new way to enjoy wild mushrooms, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a visit to the local farmers market with a basket full of fresh vegetables. As I sorted through my purchases, I came across a small bundle of vibrant green amaranth leaves and a variety of wild mushrooms that I had never seen before.

Intrigued by the unique ingredients, I decided to experiment and create a new dish. I remembered hearing about the health benefits of amaranth, a nutritious grain that has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. I also knew that wild mushrooms added a rich and earthy flavor to any dish.

I set to work in my cozy kitchen, chopping and sautéing the vegetables, mixing them with cooked amaranth, and shaping the mixture into small patties. As the cakes sizzled in the skillet, a mouthwatering aroma filled the air, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

As the cakes cooked, I reminisced about the many recipes I had learned over the years from various places and people. My love for cooking had been passed down through generations, starting with my own grandmother, who taught me the art of traditional home cooking. I had also picked up recipes from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I had met while traveling.

One recipe, in particular, stood out in my mind. It was a simple but delicious dish that I had learned from an elderly woman I met at a cooking class in Italy. She had shared her secret for making the most flavorful risotto, and I had treasured the recipe ever since.

As I flipped the amaranth cakes, a sense of pride washed over me. The recipe I had created was a testament to my passion for cooking and my willingness to try new things. I knew that my family would appreciate the unique flavors and textures of the dish, and I couldn't wait to share it with them.

When the cakes were golden brown and crispy, I plated them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The sight of the finished dish brought a smile to my face, and I felt a sense of accomplishment knowing that I had created something truly special.

As my family gathered around the table to enjoy the meal, I shared the story of how I had come up with the recipe for Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms. They listened intently, savoring each bite of the delicious dish and expressing their admiration for my creativity in the kitchen.

In that moment, I realized that cooking was not just about following recipes – it was about creating memories, sharing stories, and bringing people together. The recipe for Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms had not only nourished our bodies but also nourished our souls, and for that, I was grateful.

As I cleared the table and washed the dishes, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The recipe for Amaranth Cakes with Wild Mushrooms had become a part of my culinary repertoire, a symbol of my love for cooking and my desire to continue learning and experimenting in the kitchen.

And as I tucked myself into bed that night, I drifted off to sleep with a smile on my face, knowing that I had found a new favorite recipe that would be passed down to future generations, just like the many recipes that had been shared with me over the years. Cooking had truly become a labor of love, and I couldn't wait to see where my culinary adventures would take me next.