This Garlic Mushrooms recipe combines buttery, crispy mushrooms with fresh garlic and herbs, creating a quick and flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal.
People should try it because it’s easy to prepare in just 20 minutes and offers a delicious, savoury experience that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Servings: Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) mushrooms, cleaned and sliced (you can use button mushrooms, cremini, or any variety you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
How To Make Perfect Garlic Mushrooms
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
First, clean the mushrooms thoroughly by wiping them with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt. If you have larger mushrooms, go ahead and slice them. If they are small, you can leave them whole. Properly cleaning and prepping your mushrooms ensures a better texture and taste in your final dish.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Next, place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add some olive oil. The oil not only helps in cooking the mushrooms but also prevents the butter from burning later. Make sure the oil is hot before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the mushrooms to the pan. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes. This will help them develop a nice golden color on one side, enhancing both the flavor and appearance.
Step 4: Add the Butter
After the mushrooms have taken on a golden hue, add a generous amount of unsalted butter to the pan. As the butter melts, stir the mushrooms so they get coated in the delightful butter and oil mixture. Continue to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the mushrooms turning beautifully browned and crispy around the edges, which is exactly what you want.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Herbs
Now, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the pan, stirring well to combine it with the mushrooms. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be vigilant to avoid burning the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Then, add fresh parsley and thyme, stirring to incorporate these aromatic herbs fully.
Step 6: Deglaze with White Wine (Optional)
If you choose to, pour some white wine into the pan. The wine will sizzle and help deglaze the pan, lifting all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, which should take around 2 to 3 minutes. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 7: Season
It’s time to season your mushrooms. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the dish, enhancing every bite with balanced flavors.
Last Step: Serve
Finally, transfer the garlic mushrooms to a serving dish. For an added touch of freshness, garnish with some extra chopped parsley. Serve them hot and enjoy the delightful combination of buttery, garlicky goodness with a hint of fresh herbs.
Tips For Making It Better:
- For an extra layer of flavour, you can add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steak, chicken, and pasta, or can be enjoyed as a delicious appetizer or side dish on its own.
Common Mistakes People Make
When preparing garlic mushrooms, several common mistakes can impact the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
Overcrowding the Pan
One of the most frequent mistakes is overcrowding the pan. When mushrooms are packed too tightly, they steam instead of sautéing, which prevents them from browning properly. Always spread them out in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
Not Using Enough Heat
Cooking mushrooms at too low a temperature can cause them to release too much moisture, resulting in a soggy texture. Ensure your skillet is heated to medium-high before adding the mushrooms. The initial high heat helps them sear and develop a flavorful crust.
Neglecting to Preheat the Oil
Adding mushrooms to a pan before the oil is hot enough can cause them to absorb the oil too quickly, making them greasy. Wait until the oil is hot and shimmering before adding the mushrooms to get the best results.
Using Too Much Butter at Once
Adding all the butter at once can cause it to burn, especially if the pan is very hot. Instead, add the butter after the mushrooms have started to brown in the oil. This way, the butter will melt and coat the mushrooms without burning.
Best Mushrooms For Grilling
The best mushrooms for grilling are those that can hold up well to the heat and maintain a firm texture. Here are some of the best ones:
- Portobello Mushrooms: These large mushrooms are perfect for grilling due to their meaty texture and large caps, which can hold marinades well.
- Cremini (Baby Bella) Mushrooms: Similar to portobellos but smaller, cremini mushrooms have a rich flavor and firm texture that works well on the grill.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Known for their earthy and smoky flavor, shiitake mushrooms have a firm texture that holds up well to grilling.
- Oyster Mushrooms: These mushrooms have a delicate yet meaty texture and a mild flavor that absorbs marinades well.
- King Oyster (King Trumpet) Mushrooms: These have a thick stem and a small cap, making them ideal for grilling.
- Button Mushrooms: While smaller and more delicate, button mushrooms can be grilled if handled carefully. They are best used on skewers or in grill baskets to prevent them from falling through the grates.
