Sarah Brown
Garlic mushrooms with double cream is a rich and indulgent dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the aromatic punch of garlic, all enveloped in a velvety, creamy sauce. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a hearty topping for toast or steak, this recipe is surprisingly simple yet incredibly satisfying. The key lies in sautéing the mushrooms until they release their natural juices, then infusing them with the fragrant essence of garlic before folding in the double cream to create a luscious, decadent finish. Whether you're cooking for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this dish promises to elevate any meal with its comforting and luxurious taste.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Garlic Mushrooms with Double Cream |
| Main Ingredients | Mushrooms, garlic, double cream, butter, olive oil |
| Cooking Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Servings | 2-4 (as a side dish) |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, creamy, garlicky |
| Key Techniques | Sautéing, simmering |
| Optional Additions | Parsley, thyme, white wine, Parmesan cheese |
| Dietary Considerations | Vegetarian, gluten-free (if using gluten-free ingredients) |
| Serving Suggestions | Serve with crusty bread, steak, or as a side to roasted meats |
| Storage | Best served fresh; leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days |
| Reheating Instructions | Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat to avoid splitting the cream |
| Popular Variations | Adding bacon, using different mushroom varieties (e.g., shiitake, portobello) |
| Health Benefits | Mushrooms are low in calories and rich in vitamins; garlic boosts immunity |
| Cookware Needed | Large skillet or frying pan |
| Preparation Tips | Clean mushrooms with a damp cloth instead of soaking to retain texture |
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What You'll Learn
- Ingredients Needed: Garlic, mushrooms, double cream, butter, thyme, salt, pepper, olive oil
- Preparing Mushrooms: Clean, slice mushrooms; sauté until golden brown in butter and oil
- Cooking Garlic: Mince garlic; add to mushrooms, cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes
- Adding Cream: Pour in double cream; simmer until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally
- Serving Tips: Garnish with thyme, serve with bread, rice, or as a side dish
Ingredients Needed: Garlic, mushrooms, double cream, butter, thyme, salt, pepper, olive oil
To create a rich and creamy garlic mushroom dish, the ingredients needed are carefully selected to balance flavors and textures. Garlic is the star here, providing a pungent, aromatic base that infuses the dish with depth. Opt for fresh garlic cloves, as they offer a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced varieties. Mushrooms, ideally button or cremini, are essential for their earthy taste and ability to absorb the creamy sauce. Ensure they are cleaned and sliced evenly for consistent cooking. Double cream is the key to achieving a luxurious, velvety texture, adding richness that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
Butter and olive oil work together in this recipe, with butter contributing a nutty richness and olive oil preventing the butter from burning during high-heat cooking. This combination ensures the mushrooms caramelize beautifully while maintaining a smooth mouthfeel. Thyme, either fresh or dried, adds a subtle herbal note that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the garlic and mushrooms. Salt and pepper are crucial for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients and balancing the creaminess of the dish.
When gathering the ingredients needed, consider the quality of each component. Fresh, high-quality garlic and mushrooms will significantly impact the final taste. Double cream should be full-fat for the best texture, and unsalted butter allows better control over the dish’s saltiness. Fresh thyme is preferable for its bright flavor, but dried thyme can be a convenient alternative. Always have extra salt and pepper on hand for final adjustments to suit your taste.
The interplay of these ingredients needed—garlic, mushrooms, double cream, butter, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper—creates a harmonious dish. Garlic and thyme provide aromatic depth, mushrooms offer a hearty base, and double cream ties everything together with its richness. Butter and olive oil ensure a perfect cook, while salt and pepper balance the flavors. Each ingredient plays a vital role, making their selection and preparation key to a successful garlic mushroom dish.
Finally, the ingredients needed should be measured and prepared before cooking to ensure a smooth process. Mince the garlic finely, slice the mushrooms uniformly, and have the cream, butter, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper ready at your workstation. This preparation allows you to focus on cooking techniques, like sautéing the garlic without burning it and simmering the cream to the right consistency. With these ingredients and a bit of attention, you’ll achieve a decadent, flavorful garlic mushroom dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
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Preparing Mushrooms: Clean, slice mushrooms; sauté until golden brown in butter and oil
To begin preparing the mushrooms for your garlic mushrooms with double cream, start by selecting fresh, firm mushrooms. Button mushrooms or chestnut mushrooms work well for this recipe due to their earthy flavor and ability to hold up during cooking. Rinse the mushrooms gently under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid soaking them, as mushrooms absorb water quickly, which can dilute their flavor. Instead, use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe away any stubborn dirt, ensuring they remain as dry as possible.
Once cleaned, trim the tough ends off the mushroom stems. Place the mushrooms on a cutting board and slice them evenly. Aim for slices about ¼ inch thick, as this allows them to cook uniformly and achieve a nice golden-brown color. If using larger mushrooms, you can cut them into quarters or halves to ensure they cook through without becoming mushy. Properly slicing the mushrooms is key to achieving the right texture and appearance in the final dish.
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a combination of butter and oil to the pan—the butter adds richness and flavor, while the oil helps prevent the butter from burning. Use approximately 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil for every pound of mushrooms. Allow the butter to melt and foam slightly before adding the mushrooms. This ensures the pan is hot enough to sauté them properly without steaming.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the mushrooms to release excess moisture, resulting in steaming rather than browning. If necessary, sauté the mushrooms in batches. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to allow one side to develop a golden-brown crust. Stir or flip the mushrooms and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they are evenly browned and any released moisture has evaporated.
As the mushrooms sauté, they will shrink in size and develop a deep, savory flavor. Season them lightly with salt and pepper during the cooking process to enhance their natural taste. Once the mushrooms are golden brown and tender, they are ready for the next step in your garlic mushrooms with double cream recipe. Properly prepared mushrooms form the flavorful base of the dish, so take care to sauté them until they reach the desired color and texture.
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Cooking Garlic: Mince garlic; add to mushrooms, cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes
When preparing garlic mushrooms with double cream, the process of cooking garlic is a crucial step that can make or break the dish. To begin, mince the garlic finely to ensure it releases its full flavor when cooked. You can use a sharp knife or a garlic press to achieve a consistent texture. The goal is to have small, even pieces that will infuse the dish with their aromatic essence without overwhelming it. Once minced, set the garlic aside momentarily as you prepare the mushrooms.
Next, add the minced garlic to the mushrooms in the pan. This should be done after the mushrooms have been sautéed until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly. The mushrooms should already be cooking in a mixture of butter and olive oil over medium heat, which provides a rich base for the garlic to cook in. As soon as the garlic hits the pan, it will begin to release its fragrance, signaling the start of the flavor-building process. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the mushrooms to steam instead of brown, affecting the overall texture of the dish.
The key to cooking the garlic until fragrant is to monitor it closely, as it can go from perfectly cooked to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stir the garlic and mushrooms continuously for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic is evenly distributed and coated in the oils. The garlic should become slightly softened and turn a pale golden color, but it should not brown or darken significantly. This brief cooking time is essential to preserve the garlic’s delicate flavor and prevent it from becoming bitter, which would detract from the creamy, earthy taste of the mushrooms.
During this stage, you’ll notice the aroma of the garlic intensifying, filling your kitchen with a tantalizing scent that hints at the dish’s final flavor profile. This fragrance is a sign that the garlic’s oils are being released and melding with the mushrooms, creating a harmonious base for the double cream that will be added later. The garlic should complement the mushrooms, enhancing their natural umami without overpowering them. If the garlic begins to stick or brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly and continue stirring until it reaches the desired fragrant state.
Once the garlic is fragrant, it’s time to proceed with the next steps of the recipe, such as deglazing the pan or adding the double cream. This brief but vital step of cooking the garlic with the mushrooms sets the foundation for a rich, flavorful dish. By mincing the garlic properly and cooking it just until fragrant, you ensure that its flavor is fully integrated into the mushrooms, creating a delicious base that will be elevated by the addition of the creamy sauce. Master this step, and you’ll be well on your way to perfecting garlic mushrooms with double cream.
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Adding Cream: Pour in double cream; simmer until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally
Once your mushrooms have softened and the garlic has infused the pan with its aromatic flavor, it’s time to add the double cream. This step is crucial for creating a rich, velvety sauce that coats the mushrooms perfectly. Begin by pouring the double cream into the pan in a steady stream, ensuring it covers the mushrooms and garlic evenly. The cream will immediately start to mingle with the buttery garlic base, creating a luxurious mixture. Stir gently as you pour to combine the cream with the other ingredients, preventing any lumps from forming. The pan should now have a creamy, slightly thickened consistency, but the sauce will continue to develop as it simmers.
After adding the cream, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This low heat allows the sauce to thicken gradually without the risk of curdling or burning. Keep a close eye on the pan and stir occasionally to ensure the cream doesn’t stick to the bottom. Stirring also helps distribute the heat evenly, promoting a consistent thickening process. The sauce will begin to reduce as the liquid evaporates, intensifying the flavors and creating a richer texture. Be patient during this stage, as rushing the process can lead to an uneven or grainy sauce.
As the sauce simmers, you’ll notice it starting to cling to the mushrooms and spoon, indicating it’s thickening to the desired consistency. The goal is a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the back of a spoon without being too heavy or runny. If the sauce thickens too quickly, you can adjust the heat slightly or add a splash of water or stock to loosen it. Conversely, if it’s taking longer to thicken, continue simmering and stirring until it reaches the right consistency. The key is to maintain a gentle heat and keep the sauce moving to achieve a perfectly smooth texture.
While simmering, the flavors of the garlic, mushrooms, and cream will meld together, creating a harmonious and indulgent dish. The cream adds a richness that balances the earthy mushrooms and sharp garlic, resulting in a deeply satisfying flavor profile. Stirring occasionally not only prevents sticking but also ensures the garlic and mushrooms are evenly coated in the sauce. This step is where the dish truly comes together, transforming simple ingredients into a decadent, restaurant-quality meal.
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, it’s time to remove the pan from the heat. The sauce should be glossy and coat the mushrooms generously, with a consistency that’s thick enough to cling but not so heavy that it overwhelms the dish. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. The addition of double cream and the careful simmering process elevate this garlic mushroom dish, making it a creamy, indulgent treat that’s perfect as a side or a main course.
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Serving Tips: Garnish with thyme, serve with bread, rice, or as a side dish
When serving garlic mushrooms with double cream, the garnish and accompaniments can elevate the dish from simple to sublime. Start by sprinkling freshly chopped thyme over the mushrooms just before serving. Thyme adds a subtle, earthy aroma that complements the richness of the cream and the savory depth of the garlic. If you have thyme sprigs, you can also use them as a decorative garnish for a more rustic presentation. The herb not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making the dish more visually appealing.
Serving garlic mushrooms with double cream alongside crusty bread is a classic and practical choice. The bread serves as the perfect vehicle for soaking up the creamy, garlicky sauce, ensuring none of the delicious flavors go to waste. Opt for a baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta for their sturdy textures, which hold up well against the creamy sauce. Toasting the bread lightly can add a pleasant crunch, contrasting beautifully with the softness of the mushrooms. This combination is ideal for a hearty appetizer or a comforting main course.
For a more substantial meal, consider serving the garlic mushrooms with double cream over a bed of steamed rice. The mildness of the rice allows the bold flavors of the mushrooms and cream to shine while providing a filling base. Basmati or jasmine rice works particularly well due to their fragrant profiles, which subtly enhance the dish without overpowering it. This pairing is excellent for a quick, satisfying dinner and can be garnished with extra thyme for a cohesive presentation.
Alternatively, garlic mushrooms with double cream can be served as a side dish to complement a variety of main courses. They pair beautifully with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pan-seared fish, adding a luxurious touch to the meal. When serving as a side, consider portion size and ensure the mushrooms are arranged neatly on the plate. A sprinkle of thyme and a drizzle of the creamy sauce around the main protein can tie the entire dish together, creating a restaurant-quality presentation.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the versatility of this dish. Garlic mushrooms with double cream can also be served as part of a larger spread, such as a brunch or tapas-style meal. Pair them with other small plates like roasted vegetables, cheese, or charcuterie for a diverse and engaging dining experience. Whether as a standalone dish or part of a larger menu, the key to serving garlic mushrooms with double cream lies in thoughtful garnishing and pairing, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the last.
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Frequently asked questions
You’ll need mushrooms (button or chestnut work well), garlic cloves, double cream, butter or olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish.
Finely chop or mince the garlic cloves. For a milder flavor, you can lightly crush them instead. Add the garlic to the pan after the mushrooms have browned to prevent burning.
After adding the double cream, simmer the mixture for 3-5 minutes on medium heat. This allows the cream to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld without overcooking the mushrooms.
