π Appetizer Stuffed Mushrooms π
What is it?
Appetizer Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful and savory dish that makes for a perfect appetizer or snack. They consist of fresh mushrooms, typically white or cremini, which are hollowed out and filled with a flavorful mixture, often featuring ingredients like cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs, and various seasonings. These stuffed mushrooms are then baked until tender, creating a mouthwatering treat.
History:
The exact origin of stuffed mushrooms is a bit unclear, but they gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century. Stuffed mushroom recipes started appearing in cookbooks and restaurant menus, becoming a beloved appetizer choice for many.
Components:
- Fresh mushrooms (white or cremini)
- Breadcrumbs
- Cheese (commonly cream cheese, Parmesan, or mozzarella)
- Garlic
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or chives)
- Olive oil or butter
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, etc.)
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Mushrooms:
- Start by cleaning the mushrooms. You can use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe off any dirt. Avoid rinsing them in water, as mushrooms are porous and can absorb moisture.
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Remove Stems:
- Carefully remove the stems from the mushrooms. These will be used in the stuffing mixture.
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Prepare the Filling:
- Finely chop the mushroom stems, garlic, and fresh herbs.
- In a skillet, heat some olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped mushroom stems and garlic to the skillet and sautΓ© until they are soft and fragrant.
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Create the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautΓ©ed mushroom stems and garlic with breadcrumbs, cheese, fresh herbs, and your choice of seasonings. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive stuffing.
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Stuff the Mushrooms:
- Using a spoon, generously fill each mushroom cap with the prepared stuffing mixture. Press the filling down gently to ensure it sticks.
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Bake:
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350Β°F (175Β°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
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Serve:
- Once done, remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Arrange them on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired.
Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare appetizer stuffed mushrooms is approximately 45 minutes, including preparation and baking time. It may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the mushrooms. These delicious bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or as a starter for a special meal. Enjoy! π½οΈπ·π
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Appetizer Stuffed Mushrooms:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 70-90 calories per stuffed mushroom, depending on the size and exact ingredients used.
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 10-15 milligrams
- Sodium: 100-150 milligrams
- Potassium: 150-200 milligrams
- Calcium: 20-30 milligrams
- Iron: 0.5-1 milligram
- Vitamin C: 1-2 milligrams
Health Information:
- Stuffed mushrooms can be a relatively healthy appetizer option when compared to many other deep-fried or heavily processed options.
- Mushrooms themselves are low in calories and provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, including B-vitamins, selenium, and potassium.
- The filling often includes cheese and breadcrumbs, which can add calories and fat. Using lighter cheese options or reducing the amount of cheese can make the dish healthier.
- Fresh herbs and garlic in the filling can add flavor without adding significant calories.
- The fiber in mushrooms and breadcrumbs can help with satiety, making them a satisfying appetizer choice.
- Keep in mind that the overall nutrition content can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in the recipe.
As with any dish, moderation is key, and you can adjust the recipe to suit your dietary preferences and health goals. Enjoy these stuffed mushrooms as an occasional treat and balance them with a variety of other nutritious foods in your diet.
