Introduction
Roasted mushrooms are a flavorful and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. They are not only delicious, but they also pack a nutritional punch, making them a perfect addition to salads, pastas, or as a savory side. This recipe enhances the natural umami flavor of mushrooms with a simple yet tasty balsamic marinade, allowing them to soak in deliciousness.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Roasted Mushrooms:
– 700g (1.4 lb) small whole white mushrooms or halved larger ones
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cooking/kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 5 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
– 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 2 garlic cloves, smashed (skin on is fine)
Balsamic Marinade:
– 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
2 hours 50 minutes (including marination)
Yield
Serves 4-6 people
Enjoy these roasted and marinated mushrooms as a delightful appetizer or a side dish that will leave your guests wanting more!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (375°F) or 180°C if using a fan-forced setting.
Step 2: Prepare the Mushrooms
Place the 700g of small white mushrooms or halved larger mushrooms in a roasting pan. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and toss until they are well coated.
Step 3: Add Seasoning
In the roasting pan, add 2 finely minced garlic cloves, 2 smashed garlic cloves (skin on is acceptable), the 5 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme), along with 1 teaspoon of cooking or kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss the mushrooms again to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Step 4: Roast the Mushrooms
Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast the mushrooms for 35 minutes. Remember to stir them well at the 20-minute mark to ensure even cooking. They should be browned and tender when done.
Step 5: Prepare the Balsamic Marinade
While the mushrooms are still hot, transfer them along with their juices into a bowl. Add 4 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to the mushrooms. Toss thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Marinate the Mushrooms
Allow the mushrooms to marinate uncovered for 2 hours, stirring once or twice during this period. For enhanced flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the mushrooms overnight once they have cooled.
Step 7: Serve the Mushrooms
Serve the marinated mushrooms at room temperature or slightly warmed for the best taste experience.
Notes
A. Mushroom Variations
You can use a mix of different mushroom varieties for additional flavor and texture.
B. Balsamic Vinegar
A high-quality balsamic vinegar will enhance the overall flavor of the dish, so choose one that you enjoy.
C. Storage
The marinated mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
D. Serving Suggestions
These roasted marinated mushrooms can be served as a side dish, in salads, or as part of a charcuterie board.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting is a dry-heat cooking method that uses hot air to cook food evenly on all sides. In this recipe, the mushrooms are roasted at 200°C (375°F), which caramelizes their natural sugars and enhances their flavor.
Tossing
Tossing involves mixing ingredients together gently in a way that evenly coats each piece. This is crucial when combining the mushrooms with olive oil, garlic, and seasonings to ensure every mushroom is flavored uniformly.
Marinating
Marinating is the process of soaking food in a seasoned liquid to enhance its flavor and tenderness. By allowing the roasted mushrooms to sit in the balsamic marinade, they absorb more of the tangy and rich flavors.
Cooling
Cooling refers to letting food sit at room temperature until it reaches a safe and pleasant serving temperature. After roasting, the mushrooms cool down before marinating, which further deepens their flavor.
Serving Temperature
Serving at room temperature or slightly warmed can enhance the taste experience. This approach allows the flavors to be more pronounced in the marinated mushrooms.
FAQ
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use other varieties like cremini, portobello, or shiitake mushrooms, but you may need to adjust the cooking time based on their size.
How long should I marinate the mushrooms?
For best results, marinate the mushrooms for at least 2 hours at room temperature. For deeper flavor, refrigerate them overnight after they have cooled.
Can I cook the mushrooms on a grill?
Absolutely! Grilling the mushrooms can add a smoky flavor. Make sure to use a grill basket or skewers to prevent them from falling through the grates.
Is it necessary to use fresh thyme?
While fresh thyme adds a vibrant flavor, dried thyme can be used as a substitute if fresh is not available. Use about half the amount of dried thyme.
How can I store leftover marinated mushrooms?
Leftover marinated mushrooms should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week.
Conclusion
Roasted mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar offer a delightful blend of flavors that enhances their natural earthiness. This dish serves as a versatile addition to various meals, whether enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or even a topping for proteins. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic elevates the mushrooms, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
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Spread roasted mushrooms on flatbread with goat cheese, drizzle with additional balsamic, and bake until crispy for a tasty appetizer.
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Add marinated mushrooms to a colorful vegetable stir-fry for an additional layer of flavor. Serve with rice or noodles for a complete dish.
Mushroom Risotto
Stir roasted mushrooms into creamy risotto for a hearty and comforting meal. The balsamic marinade adds a unique depth to the dish.
