Savory Balsamic Glazed Cremini Mushrooms
Indulge in the rich, umami flavors of these Savory Balsamic Glazed Cremini Mushrooms, a delightful dish that elevates any meal. Sautéed to perfection, the mushrooms are caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and then enhanced with a balsamic reduction kissed with brown sugar. Whether served as a side dish to steaks, grilled chicken, or simply enjoyed as a warm appetizer, these mushrooms are sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. Their glossy finish invites you to savor every bite, making them a versatile addition to any dinner party or cozy night in.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Balsamic Vinegar
1 (tablespoon)
Dark Brown Sugar
2 (teaspoons)
Unsalted Butter
2 (tablespoons)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 (tablespoons)
Cremini Mushrooms
1 (pound, cleaned and quartered)
Kosher Salt
to taste
Minced Garlic
1-2 (teaspoons)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
to taste
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Balsamic Glazed Cremini Mushrooms?
This dish features cremini mushrooms sautéed to caramelization and finished with a rich balsamic vinegar and brown sugar reduction for a sweet and savory flavor.
Can I use white button mushrooms instead of cremini?
Yes, white button mushrooms are a suitable substitute, though cremini mushrooms offer a slightly deeper, more earthy flavor.
Is this mushroom recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses butter and olive oil without any meat products.
How should I clean the cremini mushrooms?
It is best to wipe them with a damp paper towel to remove dirt; avoid soaking them in water as they absorb moisture easily.
Why is balsamic vinegar used in this recipe?
Balsamic vinegar provides a tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter and helps create a glossy glaze.
What does the brown sugar do for the mushrooms?
Dark brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness and aids in the caramelization process, resulting in a deeper color and flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this vegan by substituting the unsalted butter with additional olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
What is the best way to serve these mushrooms?
They are excellent as a side dish for steak or grilled chicken, or they can be served as a warm appetizer on their own.
How do I prevent the mushrooms from getting soggy?
Ensure the pan is hot before adding the mushrooms and avoid overcrowding the pan so they sauté rather than steam.
Can I use garlic powder instead of minced garlic?
While fresh minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor, you can use about half a teaspoon of garlic powder if necessary.
What does it mean to quarter the mushrooms?
Quartering involves cutting each mushroom into four equal pieces, which helps them cook evenly and maintain a meaty texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients—mushrooms, vinegar, butter, oil, sugar, and spices—are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, light brown sugar works well, though dark brown sugar provides a slightly more intense molasses flavor.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
This is a quick recipe that typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes of active cooking time on the stovetop.
Can I add fresh herbs to this recipe?
Absolutely; fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley would complement the balsamic and garlic flavors beautifully.
Why are both butter and olive oil used?
The olive oil allows for higher-temperature cooking, while the butter adds a rich, creamy flavor and helps thicken the glaze.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze these glazed mushrooms?
Freezing is not recommended as mushrooms can become watery and lose their firm texture once thawed.
What gives the mushrooms their glossy finish?
The combination of melted butter and the balsamic reduction creates a smooth, reflective glaze on the surface of the mushrooms.
Are cremini mushrooms the same as Baby Bella mushrooms?
Yes, cremini mushrooms are frequently sold under the name Baby Bella in many grocery stores.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but you should adjust the amount of additional kosher salt you add to the dish to prevent it from becoming too salty.
Does the balsamic vinegar make the dish sour?
No, when reduced with brown sugar and butter, the vinegar becomes mellow and sweet rather than sharp or sour.
What kind of pan should I use?
A large skillet or frying pan is best to ensure there is enough surface area for the mushrooms to caramelize properly.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, its rich, savory, and warm qualities make it a popular comfort food side dish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but be sure to use a larger pan or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which prevents proper browning.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The profile is 'umami-forward' with a balance of sweet, tangy, and earthy notes.
Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms?
You can, but whole mushrooms that you quarter yourself usually provide a better texture and don't dry out as quickly.
Is this dish low in sodium?
The sodium level is controlled by the cook; using 'to taste' seasonings allows you to keep it low if desired.
Should I remove the mushroom stems?
For cremini mushrooms, the stems are edible and flavorful; you can just trim the very ends if they are dry.
Can this be served cold?
While best served warm to appreciate the butter glaze, these mushrooms can also be served at room temperature in salads.