Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushroom

Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushroom Recipe with Crab and Wild Rice

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms are a luxurious and flavorful dish that combines the earthy tones of shiitake mushrooms with the delicate taste of shrimp, all brought together with a rich cream sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions or as a sophisticated appetizer for a dinner party. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to impress your guests and make this recipe a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

History

The use of shiitake mushrooms in cooking has its roots in East Asia, where they have been cultivated for over a thousand years. The technique of stuffing mushrooms, however, is a concept that has been adopted by various culinary traditions around the world. This particular recipe, with its use of shrimp and cream sauce, is a fusion of Eastern ingredients with Western culinary techniques, reflecting the global appreciation for shiitake mushrooms and their versatility in dishes.

Ingredients

0.5 cup butter, separated
12 large shiitake mushrooms
0.5 cup shallots, finely diced
1 lb (454 g) white lump crab meat or 1 lb (454 g) small shrimp
0.5 cup sherry
2 cup thick cream sauce
3 hard-cooked eggs, finely chopped
3 tbsp chives, finely chopped
2 tsp dry mustard or 2 tbsp mustard sauce
dash of salt
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
0.25 tsp white pepper
6 cup cooked wild rice

How to prepare

Saute the shiitake mushroom caps in 6 tbsp of butter until they are half cooked. Set them aside to cool.
Saute the shallots in the remaining 2 tbsp of butter until they become transparent. Then, add the crab meat or shrimp and heat it thoroughly.
Pour the sherry into the pan and ignite it. Once the flame dies down, add the cream sauce, eggs, chives, and mustard. Mix everything thoroughly and add salt, cayenne, and white pepper. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
Fill each mushroom cap with the seafood mixture. Place them in a buttered baking pan and bake for 5 minutes in a very hot oven (450°F or 232°C).
Serve the mushrooms on a bed of well-seasoned, cooked wild rice.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the shrimp with finely chopped vegetables or tofu.
Add different herbs such as parsley or dill for varied flavors.
Use crab meat instead of shrimp for a different seafood twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms, consider the following tips:

- Select shiitake mushrooms that are large and firm, as they will hold up better during the cooking process.

- When sautéing the mushrooms, do not overcrowd the pan to ensure they cook evenly.

- Be careful when igniting the sherry to avoid any accidents. If you're uncomfortable with this step, simply let the alcohol cook off without igniting it.

- For a smoother cream sauce, consider blending it before adding it to the mixture.

- Taste the filling before stuffing the mushrooms to adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms on a bed of wild rice for a complete meal. Garnish with additional chives or parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the stuffed mushrooms at a high temperature for a short time helps to seal in the flavors while ensuring the mushrooms are tender but not overcooked. Sautéing the ingredients before baking intensifies their flavors and adds depth to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Replace sherry with white wine or a splash of vinegar for acidity.

- Use Greek yogurt or a béchamel sauce as a lighter alternative to the thick cream sauce.

- Swap shallots with onions for a more robust flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The filling for the mushrooms can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Stuff and bake the mushrooms just before serving to ensure they are fresh and flavorful.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the mushrooms on individual plates for a plated appetizer, or present them on a platter for guests to help themselves. A sprig of fresh herbs or edible flowers can add an elegant touch to the presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a moderately calorific option. Adjusting the portion size or ingredients can help align this dish with your dietary needs.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the wild rice served as a base. Each serving contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.

Fats

The Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms are rich in fats, primarily from the butter and thick cream sauce used in the recipe. Each serving contains about 20-25 grams of fat. For a lighter version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use a low-fat cream sauce.

Proteins

Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein, and each serving of this dish provides approximately 15-20 grams of protein. This makes the Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms a satisfying and protein-rich option for your meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Shiitake mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, particularly vitamin B6, and also provide minerals such as selenium, zinc, and copper. Shrimp adds to the dish's mineral content, including iodine and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (butter, cream sauce). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms offer a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to your diet. However, due to its richness, it's best enjoyed in moderation, especially for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Summary

Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms are a sophisticated and delicious dish that combines the earthy flavors of shiitake mushrooms with the richness of shrimp and cream sauce. Perfect for special occasions or as an elegant appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. With options for customization and make-ahead preparation, it's a versatile addition to any culinary collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a visit to the local farmer's market. As I unpacked my bag of fresh produce, I came across a bundle of plump and earthy shiitake mushrooms. I had always loved mushrooms, but I had never tried cooking with shiitakes before.

I remembered a friend mentioning a delicious recipe for Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms that she had tried at a dinner party. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try. I rummaged through my collection of recipe books and found a worn and stained notebook that belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the pages, I stumbled upon a handwritten recipe for Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms.

The recipe was simple yet enticing. It called for a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and cheese to be stuffed into the caps of the mushrooms before baking them in the oven until golden and crispy. The combination of flavors sounded divine, and I couldn't wait to try it out.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped and mixed, the familiar scents of garlic and herbs filled the air, bringing back memories of cooking with my mother and grandmother in their kitchens. I could almost hear their voices guiding me through the recipe, urging me to add a pinch of this and a dash of that.

When the stuffed mushrooms finally emerged from the oven, golden and fragrant, I knew I had stumbled upon a new favorite recipe. The mushrooms were tender and juicy, with a crispy and flavorful topping that was impossible to resist. I couldn't wait to share this delicious dish with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made the Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my taste. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra richness, or a handful of chopped walnuts for crunch. No matter how I choose to prepare them, the mushrooms always disappear quickly, much to the delight of my loved ones.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this wonderful recipe, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way. Cooking has always been a source of joy and comfort for me, a way to connect with my heritage and create lasting memories with those I cherish. The simple act of preparing a meal can bring people together, bridging gaps and fostering a sense of community.

So, the next time you find yourself with a bundle of fresh shiitake mushrooms, I urge you to give this recipe a try. Let the earthy flavors and comforting aromas transport you to a place of warmth and happiness, just as they have done for me. And who knows, perhaps one day you too will have a story to tell about the day you discovered the magic of Baked Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms.