These balsamic roasted mushrooms are a savory, tangy side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The balsamic vinegar enhances the natural umami flavor of the mushrooms, while the soy sauce and garlic add depth and richness. Roasting them brings out their earthy flavors and gives them a deliciously caramelized finish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Mushrooms (preferably cremini, white button, or baby bella)
- 3 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 or 3 Garlic Cloves, minced
- ½ tsp Thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting at this temperature helps caramelize the mushrooms for extra flavor and a slightly crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Mushrooms
Wipe the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. If you’re using larger mushrooms like cremini or baby bellas, slice them into halves or quarters to ensure even cooking. If you’re using smaller mushrooms, you can leave them whole or halve them.
3. Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be aromatic with a balance of tangy, savory, and earthy notes.
4. Coat the Mushrooms
Place the mushrooms in a large mixing bowl or directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour the marinade over the mushrooms and toss them gently to coat all of them evenly in the sauce.
5. Roast the Mushrooms
Spread the coated mushrooms in an even layer on the baking sheet. Be sure they’re not overcrowded to allow proper roasting (this helps them get crispy and caramelized).
Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The mushrooms should be golden brown, tender, and have absorbed the delicious marinade.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re done roasting, remove from the oven and give them one last toss. Taste and adjust with extra salt and pepper, if needed. Serve as a side dish, toss them into a salad, or even enjoy them over pasta or risotto!
Benefits:
This Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms recipe is not only flavorful but also packs in some great benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Mushrooms are full of antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress in the body.
- Low in Calories, High in Fiber: Mushrooms are naturally low in calories while being high in fiber, making them great for a filling, healthy snack or side dish.
- Packed with Nutrients: Mushrooms provide essential nutrients like B-vitamins, selenium, and potassium, which support heart health, immune function, and overall well-being.
- Boosts Umami Flavor: The combination of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and mushrooms enhances the umami flavor profile, giving the dish a satisfying depth of flavor without needing excessive salt.
Q & A:
Q: Can I use any type of mushroom for this recipe?
A: Yes! This recipe works well with any mushroom variety, but cremini, baby bella, or white button mushrooms are ideal. You could also use shiitake mushrooms or portobellos for a more earthy flavor.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the mushrooms and the marinade ahead of time. Marinate the mushrooms for up to 2 hours in the fridge, and then roast them when you’re ready. Leftovers can also be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar?
A: While balsamic vinegar is the star of this recipe for its rich, tangy flavor, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a little.
Q: Are these mushrooms vegan?
A: Yes! These balsamic roasted mushrooms are entirely plant-based, making them a great vegan side dish or topping.
Q: Can I add extra flavorings?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add extra herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley for added flavor. A sprinkle of grated parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes would also be a nice touch.
Q: How can I use these mushrooms in a meal?
A: These mushrooms are versatile! They can be served as a side dish, added to pasta, placed on top of a pizza, incorporated into a salad, or used as a topping for meats like steak or chicken.
Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy their umami-packed goodness and savor the crispy, caramelized edges!