Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 25 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 3

Introduction

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are a delicious and healthy option for a vegetarian meal or side dish. These meaty mushrooms are marinated in a flavorful mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and garlic before being grilled to perfection. They are a great option for those looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet.

History

The exact origins of Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are unclear, but portobello mushrooms have been a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine for centuries. The large size and meaty texture of portobello mushrooms make them a great option for grilling, as they hold up well to the heat.

Ingredients

6 medium portobello mushroom caps
4 tsp olive oil
2 tsp balsamic vinegar (wine or herbed vinegar is also fine)
1 clove garlic, minced
0.13 tsp salt
0.13 tsp freshly ground pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the broiler or charcoal grill and spray the rack with non-stick pan spray.
Thoroughly clean the mushrooms and remove the tough bottoms of the stems.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, vinegar, and garlic.
Brush all surfaces of the mushrooms with the mixture.
Allow the mushrooms to marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Place the mushrooms on the prepared broiler pan or grill, with the stem sides facing up.
Broil or grill the mushrooms, keeping them about 4 inches away from the heat source, until they become tender. This should take around 4 to 5 minutes on each side.
Sprinkle the mushrooms with salt and pepper.

Variations

Add fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the marinade for extra flavor.
Top the grilled mushrooms with crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of balsamic glaze before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly clean the mushrooms and remove the tough bottoms of the stems before grilling.

- Marinating the mushrooms for at least 20 minutes will help infuse them with flavor.

- Keep the mushrooms about 4 inches away from the heat source while grilling to prevent them from burning.

- Sprinkling the mushrooms with salt and pepper after grilling will enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms can be served as a main dish with a side of quinoa or couscous, or as a side dish alongside grilled vegetables or a salad.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best technique for cooking portobello mushrooms, as it helps to enhance their meaty texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have portobello mushrooms, you can use cremini or button mushrooms instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the grilled mushrooms on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover grilled mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the grill before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grilled Portobello Mushrooms contains approximately 60 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Grilled Portobello Mushrooms contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Grilled Portobello Mushrooms contains approximately 4 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Grilled Portobello Mushrooms contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Portobello mushrooms are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, phosphorus, and niacin.

Alergens

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. However, individuals with mushroom allergies should avoid this recipe.

Summary

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are a low-calorie, low-carb, and low-fat option that is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are a delicious and healthy option for a vegetarian meal or side dish. They are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a great addition to any menu.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Grilled Portobello Mushrooms. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Anna at her cozy little cottage by the lake. Anna was always experimenting with new recipes and I loved learning new dishes from her.

That day, Anna had planned a barbecue by the lake and as usual, she had prepared a feast fit for a king. As I wandered around the garden, I noticed a basket filled with large, meaty portobello mushrooms. Anna smiled mischievously and told me she had a special recipe in mind for those mushrooms.

As we sat by the fire, Anna showed me how to prepare the mushrooms for grilling. She carefully removed the stems and brushed the caps with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The aroma that wafted from the mushrooms was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final dish.

As the mushrooms sizzled on the grill, Anna shared the story of how she had learned this recipe from an old Italian chef she had met on her travels. The chef had taught her the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooking with love and passion.

After a few minutes, the mushrooms were ready and we eagerly dug in. The taste was nothing short of divine - the mushrooms were juicy and flavorful, with a hint of smokiness from the grill. I couldn't believe how simple yet delicious this recipe was.

From that day on, Grilled Portobello Mushrooms became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for my family, friends, and even at gatherings and potlucks. Everyone raved about the dish, and I proudly shared Anna's recipe with anyone who asked.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs, spices, and marinades. I have made it with balsamic glaze, topped it with creamy goat cheese, and even served it alongside grilled vegetables and couscous.

But no matter how I prepare it, the essence of the recipe remains the same - simple, wholesome ingredients cooked with love. Whenever I make Grilled Portobello Mushrooms, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon by the lake, sharing food and laughter with dear friends.

As I sit in my kitchen, preparing a batch of Grilled Portobello Mushrooms for tonight's dinner, I can't help but smile at the memories that this dish holds. It reminds me of the joy of cooking, the pleasure of sharing a meal with loved ones, and the beauty of discovering new recipes from the people we meet along life's journey.

And so, I am grateful for that fateful day at Anna's cottage, where I learned the recipe for Grilled Portobello Mushrooms - a dish that has not only nourished my body but also my soul.