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Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles with Mushroom Gravy

Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles with Mushroom Gravy

Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles with Mushroom Gravy

3 slices of bacon

1 lb. fresh or frozen green beans defrosted and trimmed

Mushroom Gravy

3 T. butter

1 cup fresh button mushrooms stemmed and sliced

1 tsp. garlic

1/4 cup flour

1 cup beef broth

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tsp. basil

Salt and pepper

 

Preheat oven to 350. Cut your bacon slices in half and stretch slightly. Grabbing about 6-7 green beans, bundle together and wrap bacon around center of each bundle. Set aside. Meanwhile to make your Mushroom Gravy, in sauté pan add your butter and melt, once melted add your mushrooms and sauté until tender. Add your minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in your flour, then slowly add your beef broth and heavy cream. Gradually stir until thickened. Season with salt, pepper and basil. Pour in the bottom of a 11″x7″ baking dish and top with your green bean bundles. Bake for about 30 minutes or until bacon is crisp and green beans are tender.

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops

2 bone-in pork chops

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1 T. olive oil

4 T. unsalted butter divided

5 medium baby Bella mushrooms sliced

3 garlic cloves minced

1/4 C. water or chicken stock

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1/4 tsp. smoked paprika

 

In a cast iron skillet, heat up olive oil over medium heat. Season pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper. Sear pork chops on each side for 3 to 4 minutes, until golden brown. Check the internal temperature. It should be at least 145 degrees F. Remove pork chops onto a plate and set aside. Place two T. of butter in the skillet and let melt. Add garlic and mushrooms. Season with salt, pepper and paprika. Sauté, stirring often. Add chicken stock to skillet and scrape all of the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add remaining 2 T. of butter to skillet. Melt, then return pork chops to skillet. Simmer everything together for 2 to 3 minutes. Serve.

Morel Mushroom Scramble

Morel Mushroom Scramble

Morel Mushroom Scramble

 

4 T. butter

1/4 lb or more morel mushrooms, cut in half lengthwise (you can substitute oyster or sulfur shelf)

Salt and pepper to taste

6 farm fresh eggs, well beaten, with a dollop of cream or whole milk added

herbs, for garnish, if desired

 

Soak morels in cold salt water and then drain well. Melt butter in large skillet and sauté mushrooms for five minutes. Salt and pepper to taste. Add eggs and cook lightly, turning often, until set but still soft. Serve with fresh fruit and toast for a hearty breakfast or light dinner.

Crab and Pine Mushroom Cakes

Crab and Pine Mushroom Cakes

Crab and Pine Mushroom Cakes

 

1 lb (450 g) white fish (cod, halibut, sole)

¼ cup (60 mL) whipping cream

2 cups (500 mL) crabmeat (from a 1½ lb [680 g] crab)

1 cup (250 mL) finely diced pine mushrooms

1 tsp. (5 mL) minced garlic

1 green onion, thinly sliced

salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup (250 mL) Panko or breadcrumbs

2 T. (30 mL) canola oil

 

In a food processor, pulse the fish until a rough paste is formed. Add the cream and process until a smooth paste is obtained. Transfer to a mixing bowl and add the crab (without any juice), pine mushrooms, garlic, green onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until a smooth mixture is formed. The mixture should form into a ball without too much effort. If it is too wet, you can add a few breadcrumbs until a drier mixture is formed. Cook a small sample to test for seasoning and adjust if needed. Using an ice cream scoop (or ¼ cup [60 mL] measure), take a scoop of the mixture and form it into a ball with your hands. Place in the Panko or breadcrumbs and roll to coat evenly. Press the ball to form a cake and place on a tray lined with parchment (or silicon) paper. Repeat with remaining crab mixture. Heat a non-stick skillet with the oil, add the crab cakes (in batches if needed), and fry until golden brown on each side. Transfer to a warm oven and let rest while you finish cooking the remaining cakes. Serve warm with coleslaw or mayonnaise flavoured with lemon and garlic.

Conserva of Porcini Mushrooms, Capers and Lemon

Conserva of Porcini Mushrooms, Capers and Lemon

Conserva of Porcini Mushrooms, Capers and Lemon

 

¼ cup (60 mL) olive oil, divided

1 cup (250 mL) finely diced onions

1 lb (450 g) porcini mushrooms (or buttons, chanterelles, etc.)

2 T. (30 mL) minced garlic

1 cup (250 mL) stewed (and crushed) tomatoes zest and juice of 1 lemon

1 T. (15 mL) small capers

2 T. (30 mL) chopped fresh marjoram, thyme, or flat-leaf parsley

salt and pepper, to taste

 

This combination of fresh porcini, garlic, and lemon will transport you to the tapas bars of Spain. A great accompaniment to a tapas table, conserva is excellent with crusty bread or spooned over a piece of pan-roasted fish. In a skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of the oil and then add the onions. Sauté until the onions soften and begin to brown. Add the porcini and garlic and sauté until the mushrooms lose moisture and begin to brown. Add the tomatoes, lemon zest and juice, capers, and herbs. Cook, stirring constantly until the tomato reduces to a thick paste. Add the reserved olive oil and season well with salt and pepper. Let cool and serve at room temperature over grilled bread or oysters. tapas, mezes, and pickles

Mushroom Spaetzle

Mushroom Spaetzle

Mushroom Spaetzle

 

1 cup (250 mL) all-purpose flour

1 T. (15 mL) morel powder (or other mushroom powder)

1 tsp. (5 mL) sea salt

½ tsp. (2 mL) ground pepper

½ tsp. (2 mL) ground nutmeg

2 large eggs

¼ cup (60 mL) milk olive oil, to coat

3 T. (45 mL) salted butter

2 T. (30 mL) minced fresh chives or sage

salt and pepper, to taste

 

Spaetzle is a German egg dumpling that is addictive and unusual. You can buy spaetzle makers to create a more uniform dumpling. Traditionally spaetzle is panfried in browned butter and sage to crisp up the exterior. The result is spectacular with rich reduced stock sauces and matches well with pork and duck dishes.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, morel powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. In another mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the egg-milk mixture. Gradually draw in the flour from the sides and combine well using your hands; the dough should be smooth and thick. Let the dough rest for 10– 15 minutes. In a large pot, bring 3 quarts (3 L) of salted water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. To form the spaetzle, hold a large-holed colander over the simmering water and add the batter. Push the dough through the holes with a spatula or spoon. Do this in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook for 3– 4 minutes, or until the spaetzle floats to the surface, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Dump the spaetzle into another colander and give it a light coating of oil. Transfer to a baking sheet and let cool. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and then add the spaetzle, tossing to coat. Cook the spaetzle for 1– 2 minutes to give the dumplings some colour, then sprinkle with the chopped chives or sage (or both) and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Mushroom “Bacon”

Mushroom “Bacon”

Mushroom Bacon

 

1 ½ tablespoons olive oil

1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce

½ tablespoon maple syrup or agave

½ teaspoon liquid smoke

8 oz cremini or other type of mushrooms, sliced

 

In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, and liquid smoke. Add the sliced mushrooms to the bowl and gently toss to evenly coat the mushrooms.

For Fried Mushroom Bacon (the quicker method): Heat a large skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot add the mushrooms and any leftover marinade. Tip: If your pan is not that large, you may want to work in batches as you will get the best results if the mushrooms are in a single layer on the bottom of the pan. Fry 5 – 10 minutes letting them get golden on one side before flipping. Try not to stir the mushrooms too much as letting them rest will allow them to really brown up. It may get a little smoky, so be sure to turn on your hood fan. Remove from the pan and enjoy! For Baked Mushroom Bacon: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the mushrooms slices in a single layer over the prepared baking sheet, and pour over any leftover marinade. Add to the oven and bake for 18 – 25 minutes until dark golden and reduced in size.

Mushroom Bacon Stock

Mushroom Bacon Stock

Mushroom Bacon Stock

 

4 quarts (4 L) water

1 lb (450 g) slab smoked bacon (or smoked ham hock)

8 large dried shiitake mushrooms

2 cups (500 mL) whole button mushrooms

1 cup (250 mL) peeled and chopped onions

1 cup (250 mL) peeled and chopped carrots

1 cup (250 mL) chopped celery

4 garlic cloves

1 T. (15 mL) chopped fresh rosemary

1 T. (15 mL) chopped fresh sage

 

Chill the stock after straining and you can skim any fat off the top of the cooled stock. In a large stockpot, combine all the ingredients. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 1 hour. Strain the stock into a large container, then remove the shiitake mushrooms and bacon slab. Discard the rest of the vegetables and the herbs. Cut the stems off the shiitakes and discard. (The shiitake caps can be used in a stir-fry or stew, or may be sliced thinly and returned to the broth. The bacon can be sliced and added to many recipes.) Place the container on a wire rack and let stock cool until room temperature, then refrigerate in a covered container.

Grilled Maitake Mushrooms

Grilled Maitake Mushrooms

Grilled Maitake Mushrooms

Start this recipe the night before serving so that the mushrooms can marinate overnight. Widely known as “hens of the woods” because of their richness and dense texture, maitakes can look intimidating, like a strange piece of brown coral. But they’re delicious, meaty, and easy to work with. If you’ve never tried maitakes, I encourage you to experiment with them. Portobellos, shiitakes, or any mushroom big enough to grill may also be used.

 

1 C. olive oil

1/2 C. soy sauce

2 scallions, green and white parts separated, and green parts thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed

2 T. honey

5 T. white wine

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 lb. maitake mushrooms

1/2 bunch watercress, roots trimmed

 

Put the olive oil, soy sauce, scallion whites, garlic, honey, and 2 T. of the wine in a blender and blend until smooth. Season with salt. Cut the maitake into slices 1 inch thick. It’s important that each slice be attached to the large stem at the bottom; otherwise the slice will fall apart and be hard to handle on the grill. To avoid this problem, simply pick up the mushroom and look at where the stem is. Turn the mushroom on its side while gently slicing, making sure the connection between the frilly part of the mushroom and the stem stays intact. Place the slices in a shallow rimmed dish and coat them with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Heat a grill until it’s very hot and arrange the maitakes on the grill, reserving the marinade. Press the slices with a metal spatula to form grill marks and brush them with some of the reserved marinade. Grill for 3 minutes, then turn and press down with the spatula again. Brush with some of the remaining marinade and grill for 2 minutes more. Set the maitakes aside. Heat a sauté pan over high heat and add the reserved marinade and the remaining 3 T. white wine. Bring to a boil and reduce for a few minutes, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon. To serve, arrange a bed of watercress on four individual plates. Slice the maitakes into a few pieces and divide among the plates, arranging them on top of the watercress. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon the sauce over the mushrooms and garnish with the scallion greens.

Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Mushrooms

Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Mushrooms

Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Mushrooms

 

2 T. salted butter

4 cloves garlic, finely diced

21 oz. mushrooms, washed and dried with paper towel

1 small onion, chopped

1/2 C. white wine. optional, use stock for lower carb

5 oz. jarred sun-dried tomato strips in oil, (reserve 1 T. of the jarred oil for cooking)

1 1/2 C. heavy cream

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 C. baby spinach leaves, washed

1/2 C. fresh grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp. cornstarch, optional — (mix cornstarch with 1 T. water for a thicker sauce), omit for lower carb

1 tsp. dried Italian herbs

1 T. fresh parsley, chopped

 

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt the butter and sauté onion until transparent; add the garlic and cook until fragrant (about one minute). Cook the sun-dried tomatoes and oil in with the butter for about 2 minutes to release all their flavors. Cook mushrooms in the tomato flavors for about 5 minutes. Pour in the white wine or broth (if using), and allow to reduce to half, while scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan. Reduce heat to low-medium heat, add the cream and bring to a gentle simmer, while stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Add in the spinach leaves; allow to wilt in the sauce, then add in the parmesan cheese. Allow sauce to simmer for a further minute until cheese melts through the sauce. (For a thicker sauce, add the milk/cornstarch mixture to the center of the pan, and continue to simmer while quickly stirring the mixture through until the sauce thickens.) Mix in the herbs and garnish with parsley. Serve over mashed cauliflower, zucchini noodles or steamed veg.

Baked Eggs on Mushrooms

Baked Eggs on Mushrooms

Baked Eggs on Mushrooms

2 T. Butter

1 clove Garlic, minced

2 C. sliced Button or Cremini Mushrooms

¾ tsp. Fresh Thyme

½ C. grated Fontina or Mozzarella Cheese

2 Eggs

Pinch each Salt & Pepper

 

Preheat oven to 400. In a smallish oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, mushrooms and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften, about 3 minutes. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the mushrooms. Now crack the eggs on top, side by side. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, which gives firm whites and slightly runny yolks. Adjust the time based on your egg preference. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before serving.

Mixed Wild Mushroom Saute on Toast Points

Mixed Wild Mushroom Saute on Toast Points

Mixed Wild Mushroom Saute on Toast Points

 

2 T. olive oil

2 T. butter, cut into pieces

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 shallots, thinly sliced

1 1/2 lb. assorted mushrooms, thinly sliced

2 T. fresh thyme

Salt and pepper

3 T. all-purpose flour

1/2 C. dry white wine

1 C. vegetable broth

1/2 C. half-and-half

8 slices bread, toasted

2 C. gruyere cheese, shredded

 

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter. Once butter melts, add the garlic and shallots, cook for 30 seconds and add mushrooms and combine. Sprinkle thyme over mushrooms, stirring frequently until they brown; add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1-2 more minutes, stirring to evenly distribute. Whisk the wine into the pan and cook it off for a minute, then whisk in the stock. Thicken the stock for a minute, then add the half-and-half and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. Cut the toasted bread in triangle halves. Arrange 4 toast triangles on a dinner plate. Pour 1/4 of the mushrooms across each portion and top with Gruyere.

Wild Mushroom, Goat Cheese and Watercress Crepes

Wild Mushroom, Goat Cheese and Watercress Crepes

Wild Mushroom, Goat Cheese and Watercress Crepes

 

Crepes:

 

2 eggs

1 1/4 cups low-fat milk

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 to 2 tablespoons melted butter

 

Mushrooms:

 

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

8 ounces wild mushrooms, cleaned and sliced

1 medium shallot, minced

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons lemon juice

1 bunch watercress, stems removed

4 ounces herbed goat cheese

 

To make crepes: Place the eggs, milk, salt and flour in a blender and process until smooth. Let the batter rest at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 days) before using. Place an 8-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes. Brush the pan lightly with melted butter. Pour a 1/4 cup batter into the hot pan, wait a few seconds, then tilt the pan in all directions to spread the batter into an even circle. Cook over medium heat until the top is dry, about 1 minute. Loosen the edges with the tip of a spatula, slide it underneath the crepe and carefully turn it over. Cook the other side for about 30 seconds, then slide the crepe onto a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the cooked crepes on the plate. To make mushrooms: Heat a large sauté pan over high heat. When hot, add 1 tablespoon of the butter and half the mushrooms. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are seared, golden brown and dry. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining butter and mushrooms. When all the mushrooms are cooked, return them to the pan, set the heat to medium and add the shallot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the shallot is beginning to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, 1 minute more. Season to taste with salt and pepper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the watercress and toss to coat. Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add one crepe and spread about 1 tablespoon of the goat cheese on top. Sprinkle with warm sautéed mushrooms and cook until cheese begins to melt. Top with a small handful of watercress, fold the crepe over and slide onto a plate. Repeat with the remaining crepes and filling (save some of the watercress for garnish). Serve 2 crepes per person, topped with watercress.

PNW Roasted Fall Mushroom Bruschetta

PNW Roasted Fall Mushroom Bruschetta

PNW Roasted Fall Mushroom Bruschetta

 

4 cups seasonal mushrooms (chanterelles, oyster, shiitake, or cremini), roughly chopped

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing bread and drizzling

¼ cup minced garlic

1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary

1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

12 pieces of sliced baguette, cut 1/4 inch thick diagonally

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

 

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Combine the mushrooms, oil, garlic, onion, rosemary, and parsley in a large bowl. Stir to combine, then salt and pepper to taste. Spread the mushroom mixture in an even layer on a large baking sheet, and roast for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the mushrooms are lightly caramelized. Meanwhile, brush the baguette slices with oil on both sides. Sprinkle lightly with salt. When the mushrooms are done, toast the bread for about 5 minutes, turning once, or until light golden brown on both sides. Arrange the warm baguette toasts on a serving platter. Top with the warm mushroom mixture, drizzle with additional oil, and garnish with chopped chives and Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Sausage Breakfast Boats with Rapini, Tomatoes & Mushrooms

Sausage Breakfast Boats with Rapini, Tomatoes & Mushrooms

Sausage Breakfast Boats with Rapini, Tomatoes & Mushrooms

4 Sausage Patties, cooked & halved

4 large rolls, such as ciabatta, Italian or brioche

2 tbsp. butter, melted

1 small bunch rapini (broccoli rabe), stems trimmed as needed

1/4 cup sliced mushrooms (button, crimini or shiitake)

8 grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

4 eggs, brought to room temperature for 30 minutes

Fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

 

Preheat oven to 375Fill medium saucepot with lightly salted water & bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Blanch rapini for 30 seconds & drain well. Cut rapini into smaller pieces when cool. 2. With small knife, cut off tops off rolls & remove some of the interior making a nice “bowl” for your ingredients. Lightly brush rolls, including interior, with butter & bake on rimmed baking pan for 5-6 minutes or until interior of rolls are lightly toasted. 3. Equally divide & arrange sausage, rapini, mushrooms & tomatoes in rolls, leaving centers open for eggs. Top each with cracked egg, seasoning with salt & pepper & sprinkling with thyme leaves if desired. Return to oven & bake for 10-12 minutes or until rolls are a toasty golden brown & the egg whites have just set. Enjoy while still warm from the oven for best flavor & texture.

Chef’s Tip: Can’t find rapini? Try using baby kale greens, chard or spinach. In a pinch for time? Use Smithfield Fully Cooked Sausage Patties to make this easy recipe even quicker!

Filet Mignon with Mustard and Mushrooms

Filet Mignon with Mustard and Mushrooms

Filet Mignon with Mustard and Mushrooms

4 2-inch-thick filets mignons, tied (10 to 12 ounces each)

2 T. canola oil

1 1/2 T. fleur de sel

2 tsp. coarsely cracked black peppercorns

2 T. unsalted butter

12 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and sliced 1/4 inch thick

2 T. dry sherry

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 T. good olive oil

1/2 C. minced shallots (2 large shallots)

3 T. Cognac or brandy

1 1/4 C. heavy cream

1/4 C. Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp. whole-grain mustard

2 T. minced fresh parsley leaves

 

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Be sure your stove is well- ventilated!  Heat a large (10-inch) cast-iron skillet over high heat for 5 to 7 minutes. Pat the filets dry with paper towels and brush all over with the canola oil. Combine the fleur de sel and cracked pepper on a small plate and roll the filets on the top, bottom, and sides in the seasoning, pressing lightly to coat. When the skillet is very hot, add the filets and sear evenly all over (top, bottom, and sides) for about 2 minutes per side. Transfer the steaks from the skillet to a sheet pan (set the skillet aside) and place in the oven for 8 to 12 minutes, until the steaks register 120 degrees on a meat thermometer for medium-rare. Remove from the oven, cover the sheet pan tightly with aluminum foil, and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the butter in a medium (10-inch) sauté pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, until they release their juices. Stir in the sherry and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, until the mushrooms are cooked through. Sprinkle with 1⁄2 tsp. kosher salt and 1⁄4 tsp. pepper and set aside. At the same time, add the olive oil to the skillet (don’t wipe it out), add the shallots, and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add the Cognac, stirring to deglaze the skillet, and cook for 2 minutes, until the Cognac evaporates and the shallots are tender. Stir in the cream and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, until thickened. Stir in the two mustards and taste for seasonings. Remove the strings from the filets and place on 4 warm dinner plates. Spoon the mustard sauce around the filets. Spoon the mushrooms on top of the filets and sprinkle each plate with parsley. Serve hot.

Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers

Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers

Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers

2 lb. mushrooms, sliced 1/4 inch thick

2 T. balsamic vinegar

1 T. soy sauce (or tamari)

3 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 tsp. thyme, chopped

salt and pepper to taste

Marinate the mushrooms in the mixture of the remaining ingredients for 30 minutes. Skewer the mushrooms and grill over medium-high heat until just tender and slightly charred, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Sautéed Spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions

Sautéed Spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions

Sautéed Spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions

Caramelized onions

1 T. olive oil

3 onions, medium or large, sliced

pinch of salt

1 T. balsamic vinegar

Cooked mushrooms and spinach:

1 T. olive oil

8 oz mushrooms, sliced (such as button mushrooms, shiitake, etc.)

3 garlic cloves, minced

pinch of salt

6 oz spinach, fresh

Optional cream sauce

1/3 C. heavy cream

1/4 C. milk

1/2 C. Parmesan cheese shredded

1/4 tsp. salt

 

Heat 1 T. olive oil on high heat in a large skillet, when oil is heated, add sliced onions and cook on high heat for about 10 minutes, constantly stirring with spatula. The onions should start to brown, but without burning (a couple of onions may be burnt here and there, but overall they should not be charred). Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking onions for 10 more minutes, continuing to stir, as onions brown even more without burning. At this point add just a pinch of salt over onions. Continue cooking for 10 more minutes on medium or low heat, stirring occasionally to make sure onions don’t stick to the bottom of the pan or burn. Total you should have cooked onions for 30 minutes. Remove from heat and sprinkle onions with a small amount of balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan. Using spatula, mix the onions, scraping the bottom of the pan and coating onions with a pinch of balsamic vinegar you just added.

 

After you have started cooking onions, heat 1 T. olive oil in another pan, and add sliced mushrooms (I used shiitake with stems removed, you can use any small sized mushrooms) and minced garlic. Add just a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook mushrooms and garlic covered for about 20 minutes, occasionally stirring. Add cooked mushrooms to the pan with caramelized onions, add 3 C. of spinach and stir on low heat just until spinach wilts. Serve as is as a side dish or proceed to make a creamy sauce as below.

 

Add heavy cream, milk, Parmesan cheese and 1/4 tsp. salt to the mushroom-onions-spinach mixture on medium-low heat and mix. Stir to coat on low heat for about 5-10 minutes until Parmesan cheese melts and starts to coat the vegetables. Serve as a side dish along grilled meats.

Robin’s Mushroom Conserva

Robin’s Mushroom Conserva

Robin’s Mushroom Conserva

 

The story behind this dish and her notes follow: In the fall, chanterelles are oozing out of the forest floor in Washington. My forager, Matsutaki Joe, would show up with bins of them at incredible prices. This is how we captured their essence and enjoyed them in a variety of ways at Crave. My favorite was serving them atop grilled baguette slices rubbed with garlic and smeared with goat cheese. They were incredibly addictive and lasted all winter long. I make sure I have a batch of these on hand all year round for that appetizer on the fly when a friend stops by.  Serve the mushrooms over pasta (such as pappardelle), on flatbread, or even on grilled fish.

kitchen notes: Use the freshest possible mushrooms; anything tough, wilted, or with evidence of mold or tiny holes should be discarded. Brush away any pine needles or debris, and trim tough stems.

 

2 pounds assorted wild mushrooms (Robin’s favorites are chanterelle, hen-of the-woods, porcini, and oyster)

2 cups distilled white vinegar

1 cup red wine vinegar

3 cups water

2 medium cloves garlic, slivered

2 T. fine sea salt

10 sprigs thyme

3 bay leaves

2 (2-by-1/2-inch) strips lemon peel, removed with a vegetable peeler

Ground black pepper

2 cups good-quality’ extra-virgin olive oil

 

Tear or cut the mushrooms into thin strips, 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide and 2 inches long. Any small mushrooms should be left whole for added aesthetics. (Robin likes to do this with baby oyster mushrooms and hen-of-the-woods.) In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegars, water, garlic, salt, 7 of the thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and 1 of the lemon peel strips. Over medium-high heat bring the brine just to a boil. Remove from the heat and let steep for about 15 minutes.  Return the brine to a boil over medium heat and add the mushrooms. Cook for 5 minutes, pressing the mushrooms down into the brine if they float to the top. Drain the mushrooms and spread on a clean lint-free towel to absorb excess moisture. While cooling, sprinkle the mushroom with pepper. Transfer the mushrooms into 2 sterilized pint jars (or 1 quart jar) and completely cover them with the oil. Add 2 of the bay leaves from the brine, the remaining 3 sprigs thyme, and the remaining lemon peel strip, along with a large pinch of additional salt. Cover and tap the jar on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Set the jar in a dark pantry away from sunlight and let the mushrooms cure at room temperature for 1 week. The mushrooms will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 year. The oil may congeal, so remove the jar from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before using. Note that the mushrooms pack a puckery punch and a little goes a long way.

Mushroom Risotto with Lemon and Thyme

Mushroom Risotto with Lemon and Thyme

Mushroom Risotto with Lemon and Thyme

1/4 C. extra virgin olive oil Here’s our favorite organic olive oil.

4 cloves garlic chopped

2 C. Carnaroli rice

3/4 pound mixed mushrooms sliced thin

1 C. dry white wine

6 C. Chicken and Mushroom Broth  or Homemade Chicken Broth

1 T. fresh thyme leaves

1 T. finely grated lemon zest

2 tsp. fine sea salt

1/4 C. heavy cream

 

Warm the olive oil in an enameled cast iron braising dish over medium heat. Stir in the garlic and saute it until fragrant, about three minutes. Stir in the rice, making sure each grain is well-coated with the olive oil, and sauté it until the tips of each grain of rice turn translucent. Turn up the heat to medium-high. Stir in the mushrooms, and pour in wine. Stir the rice and mushrooms gently, but continuously until the rice absorbs the wine. Add the broth a half C. at a time, stirring continuously, and waiting for the rice to absorb the broth before adding more. When the rice is tender and has fully absorbed the broth, yielding a gorgeous creamy texture, turn off the heat, stir in the thyme, lemon zest, salt and heavy cream. Serve warm.

Chicken with Sautéed Mushrooms

Chicken with Sautéed Mushrooms

Chicken with Sautéed Mushrooms

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/2 pounds chicken cutlets

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped

1 pound button mushrooms, trimmed and quartered

1/4 cup dry white wine

1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

Place flour in a shallow dish. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess. In a large skillet, heat oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high. Working in batches, cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.  Reduce heat to medium, add thyme, mushrooms, and remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and cook until softened, 6 minutes. Add wine and broth, and cook, stirring, until reduced by half, 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Return chicken to pan along with any accumulated juices. Top with chopped parsley before serving.

Baked Mushrooms

Baked Mushrooms

Baked Mushrooms

 

8 large flat mushrooms, such as portabellos, wiped and stalks removed

1 bunch spring onions, sliced

1 clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped

A few sprigs fresh thyme leaves

8oz. Taleggio Cheese

Fresh rocket (arugula)

Juice of 1 lemon

olive oil

 

Preheat the oven to 200°C, 400°F, Gas Mark 6. Lay the mushrooms on a large baking tray and sprinkle with the onions, garlic and thyme. Slice the Taleggio thinly and use to top the mushrooms. Combine the breadcrumbs with the parsley in a bowl and sprinkle over. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until breadcrumbs are brown and the mushrooms are cooked through. Serve with a rocket salad dressed with lemon juice and oil. Alternatively, serve the baked mushrooms on toasted ciabatta.

French Style Scallops and Mushrooms

French Style Scallops and Mushrooms

French Style Scallops and Mushrooms

4 T. butter

1 T. finely chopped shallots

2 C. thinly sliced mushrooms

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1/2 C. dry white wine

1 pound sea or bay scallops

2 T. flour

1/2 C. milk

1 C. plus 2 T. heavy cream

Pinch cayenne

 

Melt 1 T. of the butter in a saucepan and add the shallots. Cook briefly, stirring, and add the mushrooms. Cook until wilted and add the salt, pepper, and wine. Add the scallops and bring to the boil. Cook until all the scallops are heated through, stirring gently as necessary. Take care not to let the scallops overcook or they will toughen. Using a slotted spoon, remove and set aside the scallops and mushrooms. Reserve the liquid. There should be about 3/4 C. of liquid. Melt 2 T. of butter in a saucepan and add the flour, stirring rapidly with a wire whisk. When blended add the reserved liquid, stirring until thickened and smooth. Add the milk and 1 C. of the cream. Cook for about 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste and a pinch of cayenne. Whip the remaining 2 T. of heavy cream. Fold it into the sauce. Use 6 individual scallop shells or ramekins. Spoon equal portions of the scallops and mushrooms into each shell. Spoon the sauce over the scallop mixture. Preheat the broiler to high. Place the filled shells under the broiler about 6 inches from the source of heat and bake until a nice brown glaze forms on top. As the scallops broil, turn shells occasionally for even browning, about 5 minutes. Serve immediately.

Sheet Pan Lemon-Parmesan Gnocchi with Mushrooms

Sheet Pan Lemon-Parmesan Gnocchi with Mushrooms

Sheet Pan Lemon-Parmesan Gnocchi with Mushrooms

16 ounces dried gnocchi

8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms

1 bunch asparagus cut into 3-inch pieces

1 lemon, juiced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup Parmesan, plus more for serving

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

1 lemon, thinly sliced

5-6 fresh basil leaves. thinly sliced (optional)

 

Heat your oven to 450ºF.  In a large mixing bowl, combine the gnocchi, mushrooms, asparagus, lemon juice, olive oil, parmesan, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine. Pour the gnocchi mixture onto a baking sheet and spread into a single layer. Scatter the lemon slices over top. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the gnocchi is plump and tender and the asparagus is slightly charred.  Remove the gnocchi from the oven and discard the lemon slices. If desired, Stir in the fresh basil. Serve with extra parmesan.

Epcot Rose & Crown Mushroom Medley

Epcot Rose & Crown Mushroom Medley

Epcot Rose & Crown Mushroom Medley

 

1 T. Olive Oil

2 T. Chopped Garlic

4 T. Chopped Shallots

1 C. Button Mushrooms (sliced)

1 C. Shiitake Mushrooms (sliced)

1 C. Portabella Mushrooms (sliced)

1 C. Crimini Mushrooms (sliced)

1 C. White Wine

2 C. Heavy Cream

 

In a large pot quickly sweat the shallots and garlic in olive oil. Add the mushrooms starting with the buttons, crimini, portabellas, and the shiitakes last. Give three minutes between each batch. Add white wine and simmer for five minutes. Add heavy cream, bring to a boil and then simmer for about 5 minutes or until you get the correct thickness; make sure it coats the back of a spoon well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

 

Marinated Mushrooms

Marinated Mushrooms

Marinated Mushrooms

 

Cooking the mushrooms over relatively high heat encourages them to quickly

release liquid, which can then be reduced to a concentrated, flavorful glaze.

 

1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil
1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper

1 lb. cremini or white mushrooms, trimmed, left whole if small, halved if medium, quartered if large

3 tsp. lemon juice
1 garlic clove, sliced very thin
1 large shallot, minced
1/4 small red bell pepper, chopped fine

1 tsp. minced fresh thyme or 1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley or basil

 

Heat 3 tsp. oil, pepper flakes, and ‘h tsp. salt in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add mushrooms and 2 tsp. lemon juice. Cook, stirring frequently, until mushrooms release moisture, moisture evaporates, and mushrooms have browned around edges, about 10 minutes. Spread mushrooms in single layer on large plate or rimmed baking sheet; cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes. When cooled, transfer mushrooms to medium bowl, leaving behind any juices. Stir garlic, shallot, and bell pepper into mushrooms, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least 6 or up to 24 hours. Allow mushrooms to stand at room temperature about 1 hour. Stir in remaining 1 tsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. lemon juice, and thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Poached Eggs in a Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Poached Eggs in a Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Poached Eggs in a Creamy Mushroom Sauce

2 T. Oil

4 small portobello mushrooms, stems removed

salt and pepper to taste

1 ounce dried porcini mushrooms

1/2 C. hot water

1 T. butter

1 shallot, finely diced

1 clove garlic, chopped

1/2 tsp. thyme, chopped

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 C. cream

1/2 C. parmigiana Reggiano (parmesan), grated

10 ounces spinach, steamed and squeezed to drain

4 eggs

 

Soak the dried porcini mushrooms in the hot water for 20 minutes. Brush the portobello mushrooms with the oil, season with salt and pepper, bake in a preheated 400F/200C oven until tender, about 10-30 minutes, with the gill side up and set them aside to cool. (Note: Roasting time can vary greatly depending on how thick your mushrooms are.) Drain the mushrooms and chop them reserving the water. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the porcini mushrooms, shallots, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the reserved water and simmer at medium-high until reduced by half, about 3-5 minutes. Add the cream and parmigiana Reggiano and simmer until it thickens, about 2-4 minutes. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and reduce the heat to medium.

Crack an egg into a bowl, swirl the water in the pot and pour the egg from the bowl into the water and repeat for another egg. Let the eggs cook until the whites are set but the yolks are not, about 2-3 minutes and fish them out. Divide the mushrooms between two plates, top with the spinach, the poached eggs and then pour on the mushroom sauce.

Linguine with Lemon, Garlic and Thyme Mushrooms

Linguine with Lemon, Garlic and Thyme Mushrooms

Linguine with Lemon, Garlic and Thyme Mushrooms

8 ounces/4 cups finely sliced chestnut/cremini mushrooms

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon Maldon/kosher salt or 1 1/2 teaspoons table salt

Small clove garlic, minced

1 lemon, zested and juiced

4 sprigs fresh thyme stripped to give 1 teaspoon leaves

1 pound linguine

1 bunch fresh parsley, leaves chopped, to give 1/2 cup

2 to 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan, or to taste

Freshly ground black pepper

 

Slice the mushrooms finely, and put them into a large bowl with the oil, salt, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, and gorgeously scented thyme leaves. Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions and drain loosely retaining some water. Quickly put the pasta into the bowl with the mushroom mixture. Toss everything together well, and then add the parsley, cheese and pepper before tossing again. Eat with joy in your heart.

Eggs Benedict with Asparagus on Portobello Mushrooms with Goat Cheese Sauce

Eggs Benedict with Asparagus on Portobello Mushrooms with Goat Cheese Sauce

Eggs Benedict with Asparagus on Portabello Mushrooms with Goat Cheese Sauce

2 medium to large Portobello mushroom caps, stems removed

1/2 a small bunch asparagus, stems trimmed and cut lengthwise if thick

3 T./45ml extra virgin olive oil (divided use)

1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated

Sea salt

Freshly ground pepper

2 oz/156g fresh goat cheese

1 T./15ml freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 large eggs

1 T. chopped chives for serving

 

To make goat cheese sauce: Combine the goat cheese, 1 T. of water, the lemon juice, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/8 tsp. white pepper and 1 T. of olive oil in a small blender or food processor. Blend on high until smooth. (You can double the goat cheese sauce recipe if you don’t have a small blender or food processor and just save half for later use.) Set aside. To make the mushroom caps and asparagus: Heat broiler. Brush the mushroom caps and asparagus (if your asparagus spears are very thick cut them lengthwise) all over with remaining 2 T. of the oil and minced garlic and season with a few pinches of salt and pepper. Place mushroom caps on a baking sheet and broil stem side down for 5 minutes. Flip the mushrooms and add the asparagus spears to the sheet. Broil for an additional 3 minutes, or until tender and lightly golden. To make the poached eggs: Bring a shallow pan of salted water to a gentle simmer. Carefully crack each of the eggs into the water. Turn off the heat, cover and let sit for 5 to 7 minutes (depending on how runny you like your yolks), then carefully remove from the pan using a slotted spoon and drain on a clean kitchen towel. Top each mushroom with a few asparagus spears and a poached egg. Spoon goat cheese sauce over along with an extra sprinkle of pepper and chopped chives and serve immediately.

Wine and Thyme Mushrooms

Wine and Thyme Mushrooms

Wine and Thyme Mushrooms

 

2 containers Button Mushrooms

1 T. minced Garlic

4 sprigs Fresh Thyme

Couple splashes White Wine

1 T. Olive oil

1 T. Butter

Salt

Pepper

 

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large flat non stick pan. Arrange the mushrooms in the pan, cap side down. Cook on medium-high till the mushrooms caps are golden, about 5 minutes. Don’t move the mushrooms around; if you do they won’t caramelize. When the mushroom caps are golden add the garlic and thyme. Toss and let it cook 30 seconds. Then add the wine and cook on high till the wine evaporates. Turn off heat and add salt and pepper.

Chicken Thighs with Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Sauce

Chicken Thighs with Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Sauce

Chicken Thighs with Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Sauce

4 chicken thighs

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

salt and pepper

1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning (dried thyme, oregano)

 

6 oz. white mushrooms

5 slices bacon, cooked, chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1/8 teaspoon salt

5 sprigs snipped fresh thyme

 

Preheat oven to 350 F. Season both sides of chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper and Italian herb seasoning mix (usually a combination of dried thyme, oregano and other herbs). Heat vegetable oil on medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for about 5 minutes, on the skin side until nicely browned. Transfer chicken thighs, skin side up, to the foil-lined baking sheet and bake at 350 F for about 20 minutes or until chicken thighs are completely cooked through and no longer pink in the center. In the meantime, make the mushrooms sauce: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms (without salting – to ensure the mushrooms get caramelized) and cook on medium heat for about 3 minutes flipping once. Add chopped cooked bacon to the skillet. Add heavy creamy, 1/8 teaspoon salt and snipped fresh thyme, bring to boil, stir, immediately reduce to simmer and simmer for about 2 minutes on very low heat for flavors to blend and sauce to reduce a bit. Taste and add more salt if needed. When chicken is done baking and chicken thighs are completely cooked through, add cooked chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon the sauce and the mushrooms on top of chicken thighs.

Gnocchi Alfredo with Portobello Mushrooms

Gnocchi Alfredo with Portobello Mushrooms

Gnocchi Alfredo with Portobello Mushrooms

1/2 cup unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, pressed

6oz portobello mushrooms, sliced thin

3 cups heavy whipping cream

1/2 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

25 oz package frozen gnocchi, (or fresh)

1 1/2 cups shredded parmesan cheese

parsley, for garnish, optional

In a large skillet, sauté butter with garlic and mushroom slices over medium heat, until softened (about 5 minutes).  Slowly add in heavy cream, whisking while you add it to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for about ten minutes. Sauce should thicken up slightly.

Add in gnocchi (frozen or fresh) and simmer until cooked through. If the gnocchi is frozen, this could take about 5 minutes. Add in parmesan cheese, stir and sprinkle with a sprig of parsley for garnish. Serve hot and ENJOY.

Mushroom Soup without Cream

Mushroom Soup without Cream

Mushroom Soup without Cream

2 tablespoons butter
1 cup peeled and sliced carrots
1 cup sliced onions
1 cup sliced leeks (optional)
1/2 cup sliced celery
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
2 pounds sliced fresh brown or white mushrooms
6 cups chicken stock
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup chopped green onion

Melt the butter in a stock pot over medium heat. Add carrots, onions, leeks, and celery. Cook and stir until tender, but not browned, about 10 minutes. Stir in thyme and mushrooms, and continue cooking until mushrooms are soft, about 5 minutes. Pour chicken stock into the pot, and season with salt and pepper. Cover, and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes. Ladle into bowls, and serve with green onions sprinkled on the top.

Cook’s Illustrated Marinated Mushrooms

Cook’s Illustrated Marinated Mushrooms

Cook’s Illustrated Marinated Mushrooms

Cooking the mushrooms over relatively high heat encourages them to quickly release liquid, which can then be reduced to a concentrated, flavorful glaze.


1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil
1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper
1 pound cremini or white mushrooms, trimmed, left whole if small, halved if medium, quartered if large
3 tsp. lemon juice
1 garlic clove, sliced very thin
1 large shallot, minced
1/4 small red bell pepper, chopped fine
1 tsp. minced fresh thyme or 1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley or basil

Heat 3 tsp. oil, pepper flakes, and ‘h tsp. salt in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add mushrooms and 2 tsp. lemon juice. Cook, stirring frequently, until mushrooms release moisture, moisture evaporates, and mushrooms have browned around edges, about 10 minutes. Spread mushrooms in single layer on large plate or
rimmed baking sheet; cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes. When cooled, transfer mushrooms to medium bowl, leaving behind any juices. Stir garlic, shallot, and bell pepper into mushrooms, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least 6 or up to 24 hours. Allow mushrooms to stand at room temperature about 1 hour. Stir in remaining 1 tsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. lemon juice, and thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Wild Mushroom and Brie Quesadilla

Wild Mushroom and Brie Quesadilla

Wild Mushroom and Brie Quesadilla

1 C. Crimini mushroom, sliced
6 oz. oyster mushroom, sliced (approx. one head)
1 small shallot, diced (approx. 2 T. cooked)
1 T. white wine
1 – 8 oz. package brie
2 T. fresh parsley, chopped
2 T. fresh sage, chopped
2 T. fresh rosemary, chopped
2 T. fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
8 Tortillas

Preheat 10″ sauté pan over medium heat. Add butter and mushrooms in sauce and cook until lightly browned- about 5-7 minutes. Add salt and pepper, shallots and prepared herbs and cook 3 minutes more. Pour wine in pan to deglaze for 2 minutes. Take mixture off heat and strain well in colander. Cool mixture. Place about 2 T. mushroom mixture in center of top half of each tortilla. Cut the cheese in eight slices. Pull slices of cheese apart with your fingers and spread equal portions over mushroom mix. Fold empty tortilla half over half with filling to form half moon shape. Pan fry quesadillas in 10″ nonstick pan with a T. of olive oil until golden brown on each side. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges and serve.

Zucchini and Mushroom Bread Pudding with Squash Blossoms

Zucchini and Mushroom Bread Pudding with Squash Blossoms

2-3 slices of dry bread
pesto
3 eggs
1 C. milk
1/2 C. grated cheese (I used sharp cheddar and Emmental. Feta would also be delicious, but reduce to 1/4 C. crumbled feta)
olive oil
1 clove garlic minced
1/2 shallot, finely chopped
2 medium zucchini, quarter lengthwise and cut into slices
8-10 small mushrooms
S&P
squash blossoms to decorate if available

Preheat the oven to 350 F degrees. Grease a 9 1/2 ” pie pan. Spread the dry bread generously with pesto and cut into 1 inch squares. Arrange the squares in the bottom and edges of the pie pan. Beat 3 eggs, add the milk, and beat to combine. Add salt and pepper to the egg mixture. In a frying pan, heat the olive oil and add the minced garlic and shallot with salt and pepper. Cook over medium, stirring well, for 3-4 minutes. Add the zucchini, salt and pepper, and cook for 4 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook until zucchini is almost tender. Spread the cooked vegetables over the bread. Top with the grated cheese (or crumbled feta). Pour the egg mixture over the bread, vegetables, and cheese and use a spatula to press the ingredients down into the egg mixture. If you have squash blossoms, remove the stems and the stamens from inside. Carefully, tear open each blossom on one side so they open flat like a book. Place them on top of the egg mixture and gently press down into the egg mixture. Bake at 350 F degrees for 30-35 minutes. Enjoy with a salad!

Garlic Sauteed Mushrooms

Garlic Sauteed Mushrooms

Choose mushrooms that you like. I used 1 pound plain white mushrooms, but others are fine too. Wipe them with a damp paper towel and slice or quarter them. Put about 2-3 T. olive oil in a skillet and heat until hot, add a lot of minced garlic. I used 9 big cloves of a very peppery garlic, and added a pinch of crushed red pepper and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute and then add the mushrooms and stir them around with the garlic until the mushrooms have cooked the way you like them (5 to 10 minutes usually). Part of the fun is to pull out a mushroom occasionally and eat it. When it’s ready, toss in some chopped herbs (I used parsley) and serve as a side dish or add it to couscous or pasta. Kiss a lot of people, to share the wonderful garlic aroma.

Mushroom Piccata

Mushroom Piccata

Mushroom Piccata

 

1 lemon

4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

12 oz. mixed mushrooms (such as crimini, shiitake, and/or maitake), cut or torn into large pieces if needed

1 tsp. all-purpose flour or cornstarch

Kosher salt

1 large shallot or 1 small red onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

½ cup dry white wine

½ cup Castelvetrano or other olives, crushed, pits removed

1 Tbsp. drained capers

2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Freshly ground black pepper

Parsley leaves with tender stems (for serving)

 

Using a sharp knife, slice lemon into very thin rounds, (aim to get about 6–8 thin slices); remove seeds from rounds. Set remaining piece of lemon aside. Heat 3 Tbsp. oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Toss mushrooms with flour in a small bowl, then cook, tossing occasionally, until browned and crisp all over, 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and transfer to a large plate. Add remaining 1 Tbsp. oil to same skillet and reduce heat to medium. Cook shallot, stirring often, until softened, 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring often, until softened and beginning to turn golden around edges, about 4 minutes. Add wine, olives, capers, and lemon slices. Cook, swirling pan occasionally, until wine is mostly evaporated, about 2 minutes. Add butter and swirl skillet continuously until butter is melted and emulsified into sauce. Squeeze in 1 Tbsp. lemon juice from reserved lemon. Taste sauce and season generously with salt and a few grinds of pepper. Return mushrooms to skillet and cook, tossing and adding a splash of water to loosen sauce as needed, just until well coated. Top mushroom piccata with parsley just before serving.

Fried Eggs with Ramps, Morels and Bacon

Fried Eggs with Ramps, Morels and Bacon

Fried Eggs with Ramps, Morels and Bacon

 

4 ounces (100g) diced bacon

6 ounces morel mushrooms (about 3 cups; 160g), cleaned, trimmed, and cut in half lengthwise

2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, divided

6 ounces ramps (about a dozen ramps; 160g), root ends trimmed, white bottoms separated from green tops

1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) soy sauce

1 teaspoon (5ml) fresh juice from 1 lemon

1 tablespoon (15ml) canola oil

2 large eggs

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 slices hearty buttered toast

Sliced fresh chives, to garnish

 

Heat bacon along with 1 tablespoon (15ml) water in a medium cast iron or stainless steel skillet over medium heat, stirring, until water evaporates, bacon fat renders, and bacon is completely crisp, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a bowl and set aside. Return skillet to medium-high heat until lightly smoking. Add morels and cook, stirring and tossing frequently, until barely starting to brown, about 2 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon (15g) butter and cook, stirring, until morels are nicely browned but not burnt, 1 to 2 minutes longer. Add ramps and cook, stirring and tossing frequently, until whites are browned and tender and greens are crisp in spots, about 2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons (30ml) water, soy sauce, lemon juice, and remaining tablespoon butter. Remove from heat and set aside. Heat canola oil in a medium nonstick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add eggs, season with salt and pepper, and cook, occasionally using a spoon to baste hot oil over the whites to help them cook, until whites are set, edges are crisp, and yolk is still runny. Place a slice of toast on each of two plates. Top each with a fried egg. Return morel/ramp mixture to high heat and stir in bacon. Cook over high heat until liquid reduces to a creamy, emulsified sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Spoon morels and ramps over and around fried eggs. Sprinkle with chives and serve.