Mushroom Appetizer

Mushroom Appetizer Recipe from Tanzania with Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Tanzania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

This Mushroom Appetizer recipe is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for serving at parties or as a starter for a meal. The combination of mushrooms, cheese, and herbs creates a flavorful and satisfying appetizer that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The origins of this Mushroom Appetizer recipe are not clear, but mushrooms have been used in cooking for centuries. Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to appetizers and main courses. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of cheese to create a tasty and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

3 tbsp butter
1 cup sweet onions, finely chopped
2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
0.25 cup parmesan cheese
1 tsp parsley flakes
1 large egg, beaten
0.5 tsp oregano
salt and pepper
12 slices square bread, crusts removed
0.33 cup softened butter
3 slices Kraft processed cheese slices

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a large frying pan and add the onions and mushrooms. Sauté until they are soft.
Add the mozzarella, parmesan, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute and then remove from heat.
Roll each slice of bread to flatten it, then butter each piece and cut them into 4 square pieces.
Press the bread pieces, buttered side down, into small muffin tins.
Fill each tartlet with the mushroom mixture.
Cut the 3 cheese slices into 16 pieces, resulting in a total of 48 pieces. Place one piece on top of each tartlet.
Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or sausage to the mushroom mixture for added flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique twist.
Top the tartlets with fresh herbs, such as chives or thyme, for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely chop the mushrooms and onions to ensure that they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

- Use a combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a rich and creamy texture.

- Press the bread pieces firmly into the muffin tins to create a sturdy base for the mushroom mixture.

- Be sure to bake the tartlets until the cheese is melted and bubbly for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Mushroom Appetizers as a starter for a dinner party or as a tasty snack for a casual gathering. They pair well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the mushrooms and onions until they are soft and fragrant.

- Press the bread pieces firmly into the muffin tins to create a sturdy base for the tartlets.

- Bake the tartlets until the cheese is melted and bubbly for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil or vegetable oil in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

- Substitute gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.

- Use a combination of different types of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello, for added depth of flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mushroom mixture and assemble the tartlets up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these Mushroom Appetizers on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

These Mushroom Appetizers pair well with a variety of beverages, including white wine, beer, or a sparkling water with a twist of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Mushroom Appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Mushroom Appetizer contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Mushroom Appetizer contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Mushroom Appetizer contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this Mushroom Appetizer contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mushrooms are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, potassium, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese, butter, egg) and wheat (bread), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This Mushroom Appetizer is a rich and flavorful dish that is relatively high in fat and calories, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha for our weekly coffee date. As I walked into her cozy kitchen, the warm aroma of garlic and mushrooms greeted me, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

Martha had laid out a spread of delicious appetizers, but one dish in particular caught my eye. It was a simple yet elegant mushroom appetizer, with sautéed mushrooms in a garlic butter sauce piled high on slices of crusty baguette. The earthy aroma of the mushrooms mingled with the rich scent of butter, creating a mouth-watering combination that I couldn't resist.

I watched intently as Martha deftly cooked the mushrooms, her hands moving with practiced ease. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. As she plated the appetizer and passed me a piece, I took a bite and was instantly transported to food heaven. The flavors were bold and comforting, a perfect balance of earthy mushrooms and buttery goodness.

I begged Martha for the recipe, and she graciously obliged. She handed me a tattered old recipe card, stained and worn from years of use. The faded handwriting on the card detailed the ingredients and instructions for making the mushroom appetizer, a cherished family recipe that had been passed down for decades.

I couldn't wait to try making the appetizer for myself. As soon as I got home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. The familiar scent of garlic and mushrooms filled the air, bringing back memories of my time spent with Martha and her family.

As I cooked the mushrooms, I thought about all the recipes I had collected over the years. Each one told a story, a piece of culinary history passed down from generation to generation. I realized that food is not just sustenance, but a way to connect with our past and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Finally, the mushroom appetizer was ready. I plated it just as Martha had done, the golden slices of baguette topped with a generous mound of mushrooms. I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the rich flavors that danced on my tongue.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the bond I shared with Martha and the joy of cooking for loved ones. As I enjoyed the mushroom appetizer, I felt grateful for the gift of good food and the memories it brings. And I made a mental note to pass this recipe down to my own grandchildren, so they too could experience the magic of a simple yet delicious dish that had stood the test of time.