Is there anything more gloriously versatile than the humble mushroom? Not only does it make an excellent substitute for meat for veggies and vegans alike, it’s also hearty enough to turn the head of any dedicated carnivore. This magic fungus is rustic enough to stand up to the heat of the grill and bold flavorings, but can also add a soft, earthy twist to even the most delicate of dishes. As if that wasn’t enough to make you fall in love, mushrooms are low in calories, fat, and cholesterol free. They provide an excellent source of nutrients such as selenium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin and vitamin D.
If you’re looking to increase your fun times with this fungi, then grab a fork and start digging in to these top 15 recipes for mushrooms:
1. Mushroom Korma
Sometimes a good, perfectly spiced curry is exactly what you need. But why shell out the cash to order out? This excellent tutorial will show you how to make your very own mushroom curry from scratch using whole spices. There’s no need to worry about the spice level either, as a delicate, mildly-flavored korma is a great place to start if you’re a curry novice. As this dish also contains nuts, it’s a great protein punch for vegetarians and vegans.
2. Lasagna Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
If you’re gluten-free or simply trying to watch the carbs, you probably thought that Italian food was off the menu. Don’t fret, as this stuffed mushroom recipe can give you all the flavor of that lasagna you previously loved, with out all the bloat. Additional top tip–don’t just stop at lasagna. Portobello mushrooms make a great base for all kinds of stuffing, from cheese to sausage to even a luscious pile of roasted veggies.
3. Broccoli & Mushroom Unstir Fry
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeplYx92y_Y
It’s happened to everyone: you’ve come home from a long day at work and the very last thing you want to do is turn on the stove. Why should you when you can give that all-the-rage raw diet thing you’ve been hearing about a spin? This exceptionally healthy “unstir fry” isn’t fried at all, and is the nutritional equivalent of a karate kick to the face. With parsnip “rice” and a load of healthy vegetables, you’ll burn those Chinese menus that have been taking up room in your junk drawer.
4. Baked Mushroom Risotto
Who doesn’t love a good kitchen hack? If you’ve ever thought about whipping up a creamy batch of mushroom risotto but were concerned that the screw up factor was high, this easy method will make you grin from ear to ear. Not only does it forgo all the constant stirring and adding of stock, this recipe makes it super easy to make a huge batch of risotto for a crowd. Clever!
5. Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Perhaps those pesky vegetarians and vegans are on to something–mushroom burgers really are as good as the kind made from cow. This burger utilizes the meaty and hearty Portobello mushroom, which easily stands up to the heat of the grill and takes on all that smoky goodness that made you love cook outs in the first place. This is also a terrific option for those watching their figure or cholesterol, and the leftovers (if there are any) are great with your eggs at breakfast.
6. Mushroom Pate
There used to be a time where, if you really wanted to impress at a party, you pulled out the pate. However, all pates are not created equal. This light and tasty pate uses a variety of mushrooms, walnuts, and Parmigiano cheese for ultimate fungi flavor, with a huge hit of umami. Try serving this with toasted crostini, if you’re feeling fancy, or just bust out the crackers if you’re not.
7. Mushrooms On Toast
There’s nothing wrong with going in a simple direction with your ‘shrooms, particularly if you want to showcase their earthy, woodsy flavor. While you could easily do this with some of the more expensive mushrooms on the market, like Chantarelles or Crimini (Baby Bella), one of the best choices for this dish is the common white button mushroom. Serve over whole grain toast with a green salad on the side, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate in a quick dinner.
8. Mushroom & Feta Pie
Say hello to one of the sexiest brunch dishes you could hope for. Laying somewhere between a quiche and a savory tart, this easy to make and bake pie makes a great dish for breakfast, lunch, or brunch, particularly if you’re entertaining a crowd. These are also easy to make the night before you’re expecting guests, just requiring a quick re-heat in the oven before serving.
9. Mushroom Soup
This ubiquitous veggie starter has gotten a bad rap over the years, particularly due to its retro vibe. But why? Mushroom soup can actually be quite delicious and simple to prepare. Top tip: this soup actually freezes beautifully, making it a great staple to have for a quick weeknight dinner.
10. Portobello Mushroom Green Chili
Go on, pick yourself up off the floor, you chili purist. While mushrooms may not be common in chili, they’re great for giving a meaty edge to to veggie chilis, pairing particularly well with our southwestern pal, the green chili. While this type of chili might typically be served with pork, mushrooms cut both the fat and cholesterol content, making it not only a lip-smackingly spicy option, but also a healthy one.
11. Easy Mushroom & Spinach Calzone
It’s hard to dislike that lovable little scamp, Jamie Oliver. He can show you how to prepare a homemade calzone and have it on the table in about the time it would take you to order one. With just a few simple ingredients around, you can impress and amaze your friends and loved ones (or just yourself). Don’t feel like making your own pizza dough? Buying it is okay, too. I promise not to tell Jamie.
12. Mushroom Fried Rice
Asian food, particularly Chinese food, may seem daunting at first. Surely it won’t be as good at home as it is from your favorite restaurant, right? Not true. Get to know your long-neglected wok with this easy fried rice recipe. The key to cooking well in a wok is to ensure that you have all of your ingredients cut and ready to go before you even start cooking. Once you’ve completed the slicing, you’re on your way to eating in mere minutes.
13. Breaded Mushrooms With Homemade Mayo
Who doesn’t love a nice order of deep-fried, breaded mushrooms while you’re out at the bar or watching the big game? Ditch those crummy frozen fried mushrooms lurking at the back of your freezer and forget spending a fortune when you’re out. Getting your fry on is easy with this simple recipe. Not sure about making your own mayo? Then try this excellent kitchen hack instead.
14. Mushroom Kebabs
Going back to the grill, mushrooms are a vegetarian’s best friend when it comes to summer cook outs. However, even meat eaters agree that nothing beats a well-grilled vegetarian kebab. This recipe for mushrooms takes kebabs to the next level, including tomatoes, zucchini, and Halloumi cheese, for superior flavor and mega munching. Try serving this with toasted pita, a garlicky yogurt sauce, and a leafy green salad for the ultimate in healthy, yet delicious, outdoor dining.
15. Japanese Mushroom Salad
Ever found yourself in the grocery store holding a pack of mushrooms that you simply had no idea what to do with? If you’re already in love with your standard white button mushrooms and you’re looking to branch out, this is a great way to open the door. This dressing is also great on other vegetables, so making a double batch is an excellent idea.
