Baked Mushrooms

Baked Mushrooms Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Polish Dish

Region / culture: Poland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Baked Mushrooms is a delightful and savory dish that combines the earthy flavors of fresh mushrooms with the tanginess of lemon juice, the richness of sour cream, and the sharpness of parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the depth of flavor that mushrooms can bring to a meal. It's a versatile dish that can serve as a side or a main course, making it a valuable addition to any cook's repertoire.

History

The history of baked mushrooms as a dish is intertwined with the culinary traditions of Europe, where mushrooms have been savored for their taste and nutritional value for centuries. The use of sour cream and parmesan cheese points towards Eastern European and Italian influences, respectively. Over time, this recipe has evolved and been adapted by cooks around the world, incorporating local ingredients and cooking techniques to suit regional tastes.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) fresh mushrooms
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
0.25 cup butter or margarine
2 tbsp flour
0.25 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
0.5 cup sour cream, at room temperature
salt and pepper to taste
fine dry bread crumbs
0.25 cup green onions (including tops)

How to prepare

Clean and prepare the mushrooms.
Saute the mushrooms with lemon juice and green onions in butter for about 4 minutes; season with salt and pepper.
Stir in the flour and cook, stirring, for about a minute.
Spoon the mixture into a shallow baking dish, combine parmesan cheese and sour cream, and pour it over the mushrooms.
Sprinkle some bread crumbs over the mixture and dot with a little butter.
Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 10 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly and golden.

Variations

This recipe is quite versatile. Consider adding different types of mushrooms, such as portobello or shiitake, for varied textures and flavors. For a richer dish, mix in some crumbled bacon or pancetta. Vegetarians might enjoy a sprinkle of nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Baked Mushrooms, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Choose fresh, firm mushrooms for this recipe. They should have a smooth appearance and a mild, earthy smell.

- Cleaning mushrooms can be tricky. Wipe them with a damp cloth instead of rinsing to prevent them from absorbing excess water.

- Sauteing the mushrooms before baking helps to enhance their flavor and texture.

- Allow the sour cream to reach room temperature before mixing it with other ingredients to ensure a smoother blend.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Mushrooms can be served as a standalone dish or as a side to complement meats like steak, chicken, or fish. It also pairs well with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which helps to concentrate the flavors of the ingredients. Sauteing the mushrooms before baking is a crucial step that enhances their texture and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to make this dish dairy-free, vegan margarine and a dairy-free sour cream alternative can be used. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan cheese for a similar cheesy flavor. Gluten-free flour and bread crumbs can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

The mushroom mixture can be prepared and refrigerated a day in advance. When ready to serve, add the topping and bake according to the recipe instructions. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining or busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Baked Mushrooms in a beautiful, oven-safe dish to go directly from oven to table. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy and earthy flavors of Baked Mushrooms. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Baked Mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. Note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Mushrooms contains approximately 200-250 calories. This makes it a relatively light option that can fit into various dietary plans, especially when served as a side dish.

Carbohydrates

This Baked Mushrooms recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet. The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the flour and bread crumbs used for thickening and topping, respectively. Each serving contains approximately 8-10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the margarine, sour cream, and parmesan cheese. While these ingredients contribute to the dish's creamy texture and rich flavor, they also add saturated fats. Using low-fat sour cream and margarine can help reduce the overall fat content. Each serving contains about 15-20 grams of fat, depending on the specific products used.

Proteins

Mushrooms are a good source of protein, especially for a vegetable. This dish, combined with the protein content from the parmesan cheese and sour cream, provides a moderate amount of protein. Each serving offers approximately 6-8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin and riboflavin, which are essential for energy production and brain health. They also contain minerals such as selenium, potassium, and copper. The addition of green onions adds a dose of vitamin K, important for bone health.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy products (sour cream, parmesan cheese) and gluten (flour, bread crumbs), which are common allergens. Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Baked Mushrooms is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in calories, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

Baked Mushrooms is a versatile, flavorful, and nutritious dish that can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether served as a side or a main, it's sure to be a hit with its creamy texture and rich, savory taste.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a rainy day, much like today, and I was feeling a bit restless. I had already baked a batch of cookies and made a pot of soup, but I still wanted to do something in the kitchen. That's when I remembered a recipe that my dear friend Maggie had shared with me years ago – Baked Mushrooms.

I had never tried making this dish before, but I had fond memories of the time Maggie had cooked it for me. The mushrooms were tender and flavorful, with a hint of garlic and herbs that made my taste buds sing. I knew I had to give it a try myself.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed – fresh mushrooms, butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. As I preheated the oven, I couldn't help but smile as I remembered the day Maggie had taught me how to make this dish.

Maggie was a wonderful cook, and she had a knack for creating simple but delicious recipes. She had learned this recipe from her grandmother, who had picked it up from a friend many years ago. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, and I was honored that Maggie had shared it with me.

As I sliced the mushrooms and minced the garlic, I thought about the time Maggie and I had spent together in the kitchen. We had laughed and chatted as we cooked, sharing stories and memories while creating delicious meals. Maggie had always been a source of inspiration for me, and I was grateful for all the recipes and cooking tips she had shared with me over the years.

I sautéed the mushrooms in butter and garlic, letting them cook until they were golden brown and fragrant. Then, I sprinkled them with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, giving them a crispy, cheesy topping that would be irresistible.

As I placed the dish in the oven to bake, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The aroma of garlic and mushrooms filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation of the delicious meal to come.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the dish out of the oven and marveled at the golden-brown mushrooms and bubbly cheese that greeted me. I couldn't wait to dig in and savor the flavors that had brought me so much joy over the years.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that rainy day with Maggie, enjoying a simple but delicious meal that had been passed down through generations. The mushrooms were tender and juicy, with a crispy topping that added the perfect amount of crunch. The garlic and herbs added a burst of flavor that made my taste buds dance with delight.

I savored every bite, enjoying the memories that this dish brought back to me. I thought about Maggie and her grandmother, and the joy they had brought me through their shared love of cooking and sharing recipes.

As I finished my meal, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Cooking had always been a source of joy and comfort for me, and this recipe for Baked Mushrooms had only deepened my love for the culinary arts.

I knew that I would continue to cherish this recipe and make it for years to come, sharing it with friends and family just as Maggie had shared it with me. And as I cleaned up the kitchen, I couldn't help but smile as I thought about all the memories and stories that had been shared over a simple but delicious dish of Baked Mushrooms.