Sautéed mushrooms are the perfect side dish or topping for various meals, and Spicy Sautéed Mushrooms are irresistibly delicious.
This recipe for Spicy Sautéed Mushrooms uses simple ingredients like chili flakes, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create a savory, umami-packed dish with a delightful kick.
Follow these steps to create a dish that will impress your taste buds and become a staple in your kitchen.
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Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or shiitake)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Begin by thoroughly cleaning your mushrooms. Since mushrooms absorb water quickly, avoid soaking them. Instead, use a damp cloth or paper towel to gently wipe off any dirt. If your mushrooms are large, cut them into halves or quarters for more even cooking. Smaller mushrooms can be left whole or sliced according to your preference.
Next, gather your ingredients. Mince the garlic finely and set it aside. Measure out the soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes, so everything is ready to go once you start cooking.
Tip: If you have different types of mushrooms, combine them for a variety of textures and flavors in your dish.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to heat up thoroughly before adding any oil. This ensures that the mushrooms will sear properly, giving them a nice, caramelized surface instead of becoming soggy.
Once the pan is hot, add the olive oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan evenly. After a few seconds, when the oil begins to shimmer, it’s time to add the mushrooms.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
Add the mushrooms to the hot pan, spreading them out in a single layer. This allows them to cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown color. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the mushrooms to steam instead of sauté. If necessary, cook the mushrooms in batches.
Let the mushrooms cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes. This initial searing helps them develop a rich, savory flavor.
Then, using a spatula or tongs, stir the mushrooms and continue to cook them for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms should release some of their moisture, then reabsorb it as they cook, concentrating their flavor.
As the mushrooms cook, season them lightly with salt and pepper. Be cautious with the salt at this stage, as soy sauce will also add saltiness to the dish.
Step 4: Add the Garlic
Once the mushrooms are golden and tender, it’s time to add the garlic. Push the mushrooms to the sides of the pan, creating a small space in the center. Add the minced garlic to this space, allowing it to sizzle in the oil for 30 seconds to a minute. Stir constantly to avoid burning the garlic, as it can turn bitter if overcooked.
When the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden, stir it into the mushrooms. The aroma will be irresistible, and you’ll start to see the dish coming together.
Step 5: Incorporate the Flavors
With the garlic mixed in, it’s time to add the spice and umami elements that make this dish special. Sprinkle the chili flakes over the mushrooms, adjusting the amount based on your heat tolerance. Stir well to evenly distribute the chili flakes throughout the mushrooms.
Next, add the soy sauce. Pour it over the mushrooms and immediately stir to coat them. The soy sauce adds a deep, salty richness that enhances the natural umami of the mushrooms.
Finally, drizzle the sesame oil over the mushrooms. Sesame oil has a robust, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Stir everything together, ensuring that the mushrooms are fully coated in the flavorful sauce.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once all the ingredients are combined, let the mushrooms cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the mushrooms and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or chili flakes to suit your preference.
If you’re using fresh parsley or cilantro, chop it finely and sprinkle it over the mushrooms as a garnish. The herbs add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the rich, spicy flavors.
Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the mushrooms to a serving dish. Serve them hot as a side dish, or use them as a topping for grilled meats, rice, noodles, or salads. These Spicy Sautéed Mushrooms also make a fantastic addition to tacos, sandwiches, or even pizza.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Vary the Mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, or portobello to create a more complex flavor profile.
- Make It a Meal: Add cooked tofu, chicken, or beef strips to the pan after sautéing the mushrooms for a more substantial dish.
- Vegetable Mix-In: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to add more texture and nutrients.
- Soy Sauce Substitutes: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar along with the soy sauce to create a sweet and spicy contrast.
- Extra Heat: For those who love extra heat, add fresh chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce along with the chili flakes.
Nutritional Information
These Spicy Sautéed Mushrooms are not only delicious but also nutritious. Mushrooms are low in calories and fat, yet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Garlic provides numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure. The use of olive oil and sesame oil adds healthy fats to the dish, while soy sauce contributes a good amount of protein and essential amino acids.
This recipe is suitable for a wide range of diets, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free (with appropriate soy sauce). It’s a great way to add more vegetables to your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These spicy sautéed mushrooms pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them as a side dish with grilled meats, such as steak or chicken, or as a topping for a simple bowl of steamed rice.
They also complement Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fries or noodle bowls. For a unique twist, use them as a topping for avocado toast or mix them into a hearty salad. The possibilities are endless with this versatile dish.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The mushrooms may become slightly softer after reheating, but they will still be delicious.
To make the dish ahead of time, you can prepare the mushrooms up to the point of adding the soy sauce and sesame oil. Then, cool them completely and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the mushrooms in a pan and add the soy sauce and sesame oil before serving.
Conclusion
Spicy Sautéed Mushrooms are an easy yet flavorful dish that brings together the earthy taste of mushrooms with the boldness of garlic, chili flakes, and soy sauce.
Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a versatile topping, these mushrooms will satisfy your cravings for something spicy and savory. Enjoy them as part of your weeknight dinner rotation or as a crowd-pleasing dish at your next gathering.
