Mushroom paste is a flavorful and versatile spread that can be used in various dishes, from sandwiches and crackers to pasta and crostini. It’s made by blending mushrooms with seasonings and often some form of fat to create a smooth, spreadable consistency. Here’s a basic recipe for mushroom paste:
Mushroom Paste
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 g) mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), cleaned and chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or white wine
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream (optional for creaminess)
Instructions:
-
Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Cook the Mushrooms:
- Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the soy sauce (or tamari) and balsamic vinegar (or white wine). Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the liquid is mostly evaporated.
-
Blend the Paste:
- Transfer the cooked mushroom mixture to a food processor or blender.
- Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. You can add a little more olive oil or butter if the paste is too thick.
- If using, blend in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (or sour cream) for extra richness and creaminess.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
-
Cool and Store:
- Let the mushroom paste cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The paste will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips:
- Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different types of mushrooms for varying flavors. Wild mushrooms or a mix of varieties can add depth.
- Consistency: Adjust the consistency by adding more oil or cream if you prefer a smoother, creamier paste.
- Uses: Mushroom paste can be used as a spread on bread or crackers, mixed into pasta, used as a filling for savory pastries, or served with cheese and charcuterie boards.
Enjoy your mushroom paste as a delicious and versatile addition to many dishes!
