Savory Wild Mushroom Spread
Delve into the delightful world of plant-based appetizers with this Savory Wild Mushroom Spread. Inspired by a cherished recipe shared by a Russian Culture teacher, this spread showcases the earthy flavors of portabella or cremini mushrooms combined with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the aromatic kick of fresh garlic. A touch of creamy mayonnaise and zesty lemon juice adds a velvety texture and brightness to this intriguing dish. Perfect as an appetizer, it's best served on small squares of dark bread or crackers. Whether for a special gathering or an everyday snack, this mushroom spread is sure to impress your guests with its sophisticated yet approachable flavor profile.
8
Servings
52
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
portabella or cremini mushrooms
1 1/2 lbs (cleaned, stems and caps separated, coarsely chopped)
light olive oil
4 tablespoons (divided)
medium onion
1 (chopped)
garlic cloves
3 (raw)
mayonnaise
3 tablespoons (vegan or regular)
fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons
fresh dill (optional)
2 tablespoons (chopped)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by wiping the mushrooms clean with a damp cloth. Separate the stems from the caps and coarsely chop both parts.
2
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of light olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped mushrooms, stirring occasionally until they start to release their moisture.
3
Increase the heat to medium-high and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms reabsorb their liquid and begin to brown, approximately 10 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside to cool.
4
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat, allowing it to brown slightly on the edges. Lower the heat and continue to cook for about 10 minutes until the onions are deep golden brown.
5
In a food processor, combine the cooked mushrooms, caramelized onions, and raw garlic cloves. Pulse until the mixture is finely minced but not pureed.
6
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced mushroom mixture with the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, dill (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
7
Cover the bowl and let the spread sit at room temperature for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve with dark bread or crackers.
Nutrition Information
3.75g
Fat
4.25g
Carbs
0.625g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Wild Mushroom Spread?
Savory Wild Mushroom Spread is a plant-based appetizer made from portabella or cremini mushrooms, caramelized onions, and aromatic garlic.
What type of mushrooms should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 lbs of portabella or cremini mushrooms.
Is this mushroom spread vegan?
Yes, it can be made vegan by using vegan mayonnaise as specified in the ingredients.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What should I serve with this spread?
It is best served on small squares of dark bread or crackers.
How do I clean the mushrooms?
Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp cloth rather than soaking them in water.
Should I use the mushroom stems?
Yes, separate the stems from the caps and coarsely chop both parts to use in the spread.
What kind of oil is recommended for cooking?
The recipe suggests using 4 tablespoons of light olive oil, divided.
How long should I cook the mushrooms?
Cook the mushrooms for approximately 10 minutes until they reabsorb their liquid and begin to brown.
How do I prepare the onions for the spread?
Sauté chopped onions over medium heat for about 10 minutes until they are deep golden brown.
Do I need a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, a food processor is used to combine the cooked mushrooms, caramelized onions, and raw garlic.
What should the texture of the spread be?
The mixture should be finely minced but not completely pureed.
Is the garlic cooked?
No, the garlic cloves are added raw to the food processor to provide an aromatic kick.
Can I use regular mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use either vegan or regular mayonnaise depending on your dietary preference.
How much lemon juice is needed?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice.
Is the dill mandatory?
No, the 2 tablespoons of fresh dill are optional.
Why must the spread sit at room temperature for an hour?
Allowing the spread to sit for an hour allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 52 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 3.75g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this spread?
There are 4.25g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content?
Each serving provides about 0.625g of protein.
What is the cultural inspiration for this dish?
The recipe was inspired by a dish shared by a Russian Culture teacher.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is tagged as party food and is a sophisticated yet approachable appetizer.
How many garlic cloves are used?
The recipe uses 3 raw garlic cloves.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 total ingredients including salt and pepper.
Is this spread considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy snack and is relatively low in calories.
Can I use white button mushrooms?
While the recipe specifies portabella or cremini for their earthy flavor, white mushrooms could be used as a substitute.
What should I do if the mushrooms release too much water?
Increase the heat to medium-high and continue stirring until the liquid is reabsorbed and they begin to brown.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe suitable for everyday snacks or special gatherings.
How should I store leftover spread?
Leftovers should be covered and kept in the refrigerator, though the recipe is best served after sitting at room temperature.