Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary dish described in this recipe?
The recipe is for Savory Crab Cake-Stuffed Portobellos, a meat-textured mushroom appetizer filled with seasoned crabmeat.
How many mushrooms are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 24 large white mushrooms.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C).
How should I clean the mushrooms?
You should carefully clean the large white mushrooms using a damp paper towel.
What do I do with the mushroom stems?
Do not discard the stems; instead, chop them finely and include them in the crabmeat filling mixture.
What kind of crabmeat is used?
The recipe uses 12 ounces of flaked crabmeat, drained if it is canned.
What ingredients make up the crab mixture?
The filling includes crabmeat, chopped stems, onions, dry mustard, parmesan cheese, soft breadcrumbs, parsley, cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic salt, egg, and mayonnaise.
How is the crab mixture bound together?
The mixture is bound using one beaten egg and 3 tablespoons of regular mayonnaise.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed in total?
A total of 2 cups of shredded Parmesan cheese is used, divided between the filling and the topping.
What is the best way to stuff the mushrooms?
Use a small cookie scoop to mound the mixture onto each cap, then slightly flatten the top to resemble a mini crab cake.
Is there a specific sauce or drizzle applied before baking?
Yes, a mixture of melted butter and garlic salt is drizzled evenly over the stuffed mushrooms before they go in the oven.
How long do the stuffed mushrooms need to bake?
Bake the mushrooms for 20 minutes or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time.
How should I adjust the cooking time if they were refrigerated?
If cooking from the refrigerator, add an additional 7-10 minutes to the total baking time.
What garnishes are recommended for serving?
Serve the mushrooms hot, garnished with freshly chopped chives and a squeeze of lemon juice.
What type of baking dish is recommended?
A 9x13-inch glass baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
What should I use to prevent the mushrooms from sticking to the pan?
Generously spray the glass baking dish with cooking spray before adding the mushrooms.
Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
Yes, the recipe is specifically noted as a great addition to a Thanksgiving feast or festive holiday table.
How much garlic salt is used in total?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt, divided into two 1/4 teaspoon portions.
Can I use fresh breadcrumbs?
Yes, the recipe allows for either fresh or dried soft breadcrumbs.
What spices provide heat to the recipe?
The heat comes from 1/8 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper.
Are the onions cooked before being added to the filling?
No, the recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of raw, finely chopped onions.
What type of butter should be used for the drizzle?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter.
Is the crabmeat used as whole chunks or flaked?
The recipe specifies flaked crabmeat.
What kind of parsley is recommended?
One tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley is recommended.
How much dry mustard is included?
The recipe includes 1 teaspoon of dry mustard.
Does the recipe include black pepper?
Yes, it uses 1/8 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
Should the egg be added whole or beaten?
The egg should be beaten before being folded into the mixture.
Can I use lemon wedges for serving?
Yes, serving with lemon wedges is suggested to provide added zest.
What is the final texture of the mushrooms?
The mushrooms are baked until meaty and the crab cake tops are golden, bubbly, and slightly crunchy from the parmesan cheese.