John Miller
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to sauces and appetizers. When paired with basil, the herb's fresh aroma and pungent flavour enhance the earthiness of the mushrooms, creating a robust and savoury dish. The combination of basil and mushrooms is a match made in culinary heaven, resulting in a simple yet mouth-watering side dish or main course that can be served with steak, pasta, rice, or even toast. The addition of basil takes the humble mushroom to new heights, infusing it with a burst of freshness that will leave your taste buds craving more.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of basil | Thai basil, Lemon basil, Lime basil, Italian sweet basil |
| Type of mushroom | White button mushrooms, Cremini mushrooms, Oyster mushrooms, Shiitake mushrooms, Hen of the woods, Portobellos |
| Other ingredients | Butter, Olive oil, Salt, Pepper, Garlic, Cream, Mustard, Soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, White wine, Brown sugar, Balsamic vinegar, Rice, Salad |
| Cooking method | Sautéing, Stir-frying, Browning, Simmering |
| Cooking time | 15 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
Using fresh basil leaves
Fresh basil leaves can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the flavour of mushrooms. Here are some ideas and recipes:
Creamy Basil Mushrooms
This recipe involves making a rich and creamy sauce with mushrooms, garlic, cream, and mustard. The fresh basil leaves are added towards the end, stirred into the sauce, and also used as a garnish. This dish can be served as a side or an appetizer.
Tips:
- Use a large pan to brown the mushrooms, to avoid overcrowding and steaming.
- Italian sweet basil is commonly found in stores, but you can use other varieties like Thai basil, lemon basil, or lime basil.
Balsamic Mushrooms with Basil
This recipe is a quick and easy stir-fry with Asian flavours. The sauce consists of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, sriracha, and brown sugar. Fresh basil is added for aroma. This dish goes well with rice, toast, or bruschetta.
Sauteed Mushrooms with Basil
This simple stovetop recipe involves sautéing mushrooms in butter and herbs, highlighting the flavour of the fresh mushrooms. The basil is added along with other herbs like oregano and garlic. This dish can be served as a side.
Thai Basil Oyster Mushrooms
This recipe uses Thai basil, known for its pungent and herbaceous flavour, to enhance the taste of wild mushrooms like oyster, hen of the woods, or portobellos. The dish is served with jasmine rice and a salad.
Tips:
You can substitute fish sauce and oyster sauce with vegetarian-friendly alternatives.
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Browning mushrooms before adding cream
Choosing the Right Pan and Heat Source
The first step to achieving perfectly browned mushrooms is selecting the right cookware. A large pan, such as a skillet or wok, is essential to prevent overcrowding. Overcrowding mushrooms during cooking will cause them to steam instead of browning, leading to a soggy texture. Using a non-stick skillet can also make it easier to achieve consistent results.
When it comes to heat, a stovetop or oven fry method can be used. For a stovetop method, set the skillet or wok over medium to medium-high heat. For the oven fry method, preheat the oven to the desired temperature.
Preparing the Mushrooms
Before adding mushrooms to the pan, it's important to clean and prepare them. Rinsing mushrooms is perfectly acceptable, contrary to popular belief. Common mushrooms like white button and cremini have high moisture content, and a quick rinse won't affect the cooking process.
Browning Techniques
There are two primary techniques for browning mushrooms: dry-sautéing and cooking with butter and/or oil. Dry-sautéing involves cooking sliced mushrooms in a dry pan, allowing the heat to draw out and evaporate the moisture. This method produces ultra-flavorful, buttery mushrooms.
When cooking with butter and/or oil, start by adding these fats to the pan. For a more pronounced earthy flavour, use butter only. For a deeper flavour, use a combination of butter and oil. Heat the butter until it melts and the foam subsides, then add the mushrooms in a single layer with some space between them.
Stirring infrequently is key to successful browning. Let the mushrooms cook without disturbance for 4-6 minutes. This allows the moisture to evaporate, promoting even browning. Stirring occasionally prevents burning and ensures consistent cooking.
Seasoning
Seasoning mushrooms can be done before or after cooking, depending on personal preference. Salting before cooking draws out moisture, aiding in evaporation and browning. However, some prefer to season after cooking to avoid a liquid pile-up that might inhibit browning.
A pinch of salt enhances the flavour of the mushrooms and can be added during or after cooking. For a simple dish, stop after adding butter and salt, or continue with the next steps to create a creamy mushroom sauce.
Adding Cream and Other Ingredients
After achieving the desired level of browning, it's time to add the cream. For a creamy mushroom sauce, start by browning the mushrooms, then add minced garlic and cook for a couple of minutes. Next, add cream and mustard to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue simmering until the cream sauce thickens, which usually takes just a couple of minutes.
For a basil-infused cream sauce, finely chop fresh basil leaves and add them to the sauce. You can also use other herbs like tarragon, parsley, or dill. A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil on top just before serving adds a bright, aromatic touch to the dish.
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Basil and oyster mushrooms
Basil is a great herb to pair with mushrooms as it brings out their earthy, umami flavours. Oyster mushrooms, in particular, are described as having a "meaty" taste and a texture that is a cross between field mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms.
There are several ways to prepare oyster mushrooms with basil. One popular method is to stir-fry them with Asian flavours such as soy sauce, garlic, and chilli. You can also add a dash of sriracha and brown sugar to the mix for a sweet and spicy kick. For a vegetarian option, substitute the fish sauce and oyster sauce with a vegetarian-friendly mushroom sauce or vegan 'oyster' sauce.
Another way to enjoy oyster mushrooms and basil is to fry them. Tear the mushrooms into smaller strips, then add an egg, salt, and pepper, tossing until coated. Fry the mushrooms, then do the same with the basil leaves. Finally, sprinkle with your preferred seasoning—a combination of salt, pepper, and chilli flakes is a great option.
If you're looking for a creamier dish, try sautéing the oyster mushrooms with butter, garlic, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. You can also add cream and mustard to the mix for an extra indulgent treat.
No matter which recipe you choose, the combination of basil and oyster mushrooms is sure to be a flavourful and aromatic delight.
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Basil and garlic
Tips for using basil and garlic with mushrooms:
- Fresh basil leaves are best for adding flavour to mushrooms. Chop the basil finely and add it to your mushroom dish. You can also use other varieties of basil, such as Thai basil, lemon basil, or lime basil, to add a unique twist to your dish.
- Garlic and basil complement each other well and can enhance the flavour of mushrooms when used together. Sautéing garlic and mushrooms together before adding cream or other ingredients can create a delicious, flavourful dish.
- When cooking mushrooms with garlic and basil, it is important to brown the mushrooms first in a large pan. This adds flavour and helps to reduce excess moisture.
Recipes:
Creamy Basil Mushrooms:
This recipe combines mushrooms, garlic, and basil in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
- Mushrooms
- Butter
- Oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Cream
- Mustard
- Fresh basil
Instructions:
- Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add mushrooms, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook until they start to brown, stirring occasionally.
- Add minced garlic and cook for a few more minutes.
- Pour in the cream and mustard and bring to a simmer, allowing the cream to thicken.
- Stir in fresh basil and serve.
Balsamic Mushrooms with Basil:
This recipe features an Asian-inspired sauce made with balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, sriracha, and brown sugar, paired with garlic, basil, and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
- Balsamic vinegar
- Soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- Sriracha
- Brown sugar
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- White mushrooms (or cremini mushrooms)
- Fresh basil
Instructions:
- Mix balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, sriracha, and brown sugar in a bowl and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or any other pan over medium heat.
- Add sliced garlic to the pan and cook until it starts to change colour, about 2 minutes.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 6-7 minutes until they release moisture and turn golden.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and mix well.
- Add black pepper and stir. Cook for another minute, then turn off the heat.
- Stir in fresh basil and serve with additional basil garnish.
These recipes showcase how basil and garlic can enhance the flavour of mushrooms in different ways, creating delicious and aromatic dishes.
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Basil as a garnish
Basil is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, including those featuring mushrooms as a star ingredient. The combination of basil and mushrooms creates a robust and aromatic flavour profile that can enhance any meal. When used as a garnish, basil adds a touch of freshness and depth of flavour to mushroom dishes.
One way to incorporate basil as a garnish is to chop the basil leaves finely and sprinkle them over the cooked mushrooms. This method allows the aroma and flavour of the basil to permeate the dish without overwhelming it. The basil garnish complements the earthy notes of the mushrooms, creating a harmonious blend of flavours.
When choosing basil for your garnish, it is best to use fresh basil leaves as they provide the most vibrant flavour. Different varieties of basil, such as Thai basil, lemon basil, or lime basil, can also be used to add unique nuances to the dish. For example, Thai basil has a hint of liquorice and spice, while lemon basil adds a subtle citrus twist.
In addition to its flavour-enhancing properties, basil also contributes to the visual appeal of the dish. The bright green colour of the basil leaves provides a beautiful contrast to the earthy tones of the mushrooms, making the dish more inviting and appetising. A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped basil as a garnish can elevate the overall dining experience.
Whether you are preparing a creamy basil mushroom sauce, a stir-fry, or a sauté, consider adding basil as a garnish. Not only will it enhance the flavour and aroma of the dish, but it will also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your culinary creation. So, the next time you cook mushrooms, don't forget to garnish with basil and enjoy the delightful flavours it brings!
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Frequently asked questions
The type of basil used depends on the type of dish being prepared. For example, Thai basil is used in a recipe for Thai basil oyster mushrooms, while sweet basil is used in a recipe for creamy basil mushrooms.
Other ingredients that can be used with basil to bring out the flavor of mushrooms include butter, olive oil, garlic, cream, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Some recipes that use basil to bring out the flavor of mushrooms include creamy basil mushrooms, sautéed mushrooms with basil, and Thai basil oyster mushrooms.
