Stuffed Mushroom Caps (Teste di Champignon Ripieni)
Category: Appetizers | Serves: 4
The stuffed mushroom caps, or “Teste di Champignon Ripieni,” are a delightful, savory appetizer perfect for any occasion. The mushrooms are tender and juicy, while the stuffing mixture is rich and flavorful, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. This recipe combines fresh ingredients like garlic, parsley, and grated Grana Padano, creating an irresistible combination that will leave your guests wanting more. Here’s how to make this delicious dish from start to finish.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Champignon mushrooms | 12 large |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Parsley | 2 tablespoons (finely chopped) |
| Bread | 30g (crumbled) |
| Grana Padano DOP | 40g (grated) |
| Vegetable broth | 50ml |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Gently wipe away any dirt from the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel. Rinse them quickly under water, but be careful not to soak them. Once cleaned, dry the mushrooms gently to avoid sogginess. Carefully remove the stems from the mushroom caps. Hold the cap in one hand and, with the other, twist and pull out the stem, being careful not to break the cap. Set the caps aside for stuffing, and keep the stems for the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
To prepare the filling, first clean the mushroom stems by scraping off any dirt and chopping them finely. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the whole, unpeeled garlic clove to the pan and sauté it until it turns golden brown. This step infuses the oil with garlic flavor. Once the garlic is golden, remove it from the pan, and finely chop it before adding it back to the pan.
Now, add the finely chopped mushroom stems to the pan and sauté them until they release their moisture and become tender. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Once the mushroom stems are cooked, transfer them to a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture
To the cooked mushroom stems, add the crumbled bread, grated Grana Padano cheese (set aside a little for the topping), and chopped parsley. Mix everything together thoroughly. Add the vegetable broth to help bind the mixture, ensuring it stays moist but not too wet. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir until everything is evenly combined, and the stuffing has a nice, cohesive texture.
Step 4: Stuff the Mushroom Caps
Take the mushroom caps and carefully fill them with the prepared stuffing mixture. Press the stuffing lightly into the caps to ensure that each one is generously filled. The stuffing should mound slightly above the edge of the mushroom cap.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Mushrooms
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the remaining Grana Padano cheese on top of each stuffed mushroom to create a golden, crispy crust as they bake.
Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired. Serve as a delicious appetizer to start off a special meal or as a snack for your next gathering.
These stuffed mushroom caps are bursting with flavor, and their combination of earthy mushrooms, savory cheese, and aromatic herbs makes them an irresistible choice. Perfect for any event, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.
This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, offering an elevated twist on the classic stuffed mushrooms. By using quality ingredients like Grana Padano DOP cheese and fresh herbs, you’re creating a dish that will impress both in taste and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to delight your guests with their rich, savory flavors. Enjoy!
