Bulhão Pato Mushrooms

Bulhão Pato Mushrooms, also known as “Cogumelos à Bulhão Pato” in Portuguese, is a delicious Portuguese dish renowned for its simple yet flavorful preparation. It’s named after Raimundo António de Bulhão Pato, a 19th-century Portuguese poet and gastronome who was known for his love of food and wine.

History:
The dish is a part of Portuguese culinary tradition and has been enjoyed for many years. It’s often associated with the coastal city of Lisbon, where fresh seafood and mushrooms are abundant. The recipe’s origins can be traced back to traditional Portuguese cuisine, where the use of garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil is common.

Components:
The key components of Bulhão Pato Mushrooms are:

• Fresh mushrooms (typically button mushrooms or a similar variety)
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Prepare Bulhão Pato Mushrooms:
Here are the steps to prepare this delightful dish:

Ingredients:

• 500g fresh mushrooms
• 4-5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• A handful of fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Remove any dirt or debris and trim the stems if necessary.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat.

3. Add the finely chopped garlic to the hot oil and sauté it until it becomes fragrant but not browned, which should take about 1-2 minutes.

4. Add the cleaned mushrooms to the pan. Sauté them in the garlic-infused oil until they start to soften and release their moisture. This typically takes around 5-7 minutes.

5. Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Continue cooking the mushrooms until they are tender and have a slightly golden color, which should take another 5-7 minutes.

7. Once the mushrooms are cooked, remove the pan from heat and drizzle the lemon juice over them. This adds a refreshing citrusy flavor to the dish.

8. Finally, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the mushrooms. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color.

9. Toss the mushrooms gently to combine all the flavors.

Total Time:
The total time needed to prepare Bulhão Pato Mushrooms is approximately 20-25 minutes, making it a quick and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a side dish in a rich Portuguese meal.

This dish embodies the rich culinary heritage of Portugal, and its simple yet exquisite flavors make it a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide. Enjoy your Bulhão Pato Mushrooms with a glass of Portuguese white wine for an authentic experience.

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Bulhão Pato Mushrooms:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories per serving (varies based on serving size and specific ingredients used)
• Total Fat: Approximately 6-8 grams
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: Varies based on salt added, typically less than 100 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 6-8 grams
• Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams
• Sugars: Approximately 1-2 grams
• Protein: Approximately 2-4 grams

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Bulhão Pato Mushrooms are relatively low in calories, making them a suitable addition to a balanced diet, especially for those watching their calorie intake.

2. Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is low in saturated fat, which is known to be less healthy for the heart. The use of olive oil, a healthier source of fat, makes it a better choice.

3. No Cholesterol: Bulhão Pato Mushrooms are cholesterol-free, which is excellent for heart health.

4. Good Source of Fiber: The mushrooms and cilantro in this dish contribute to its fiber content. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help you feel full, aiding in weight management.

5. Rich in Antioxidants: Garlic and cilantro are known for their antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

6. Vitamin C: The addition of lemon juice provides vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system and skin.

7. Minerals: Mushrooms contain essential minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and selenium, which are important for various bodily functions.

8. Low in Sodium: The sodium content can be controlled by the amount of salt added. A lower-sodium version of this dish is beneficial for those monitoring their salt intake.

9. Protein: While not a significant source of protein, this dish still provides a small amount, which can be beneficial in a vegetarian or plant-based diet.

10. Versatile and Balanced: Bulhão Pato Mushrooms can be part of a balanced meal when paired with other dishes. They provide a variety of nutrients and flavors to your diet.

Keep in mind that the actual nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your preparation. This dish, with its combination of fresh mushrooms, garlic, cilantro, and olive oil, offers a tasty and relatively healthy option as part of a well-rounded diet.