Smoked Garlic Butter Mushrooms are a delicious and savory treat that elevate the humble mushroom to new culinary heights.
Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course for vegetarians, these mushrooms combine the rich flavors of garlic and butter with a hint of smokiness.
In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients Needed
To make Smoked Garlic Butter Mushrooms, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How To Make Smoked Garlic Mushrooms
Clean the Mushrooms
Begin by cleaning your mushrooms. Gently wipe them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Avoid washing them under running water, as mushrooms can absorb water and become soggy.
Prepare the Ingredients
Next, prepare the other ingredients. Mince the garlic cloves and chop the fresh parsley. Set them aside for later use.
Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the butter and let it melt completely. The combination of oil and butter prevents the butter from burning.
Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1–2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Cook the Mushrooms
Add the cleaned mushrooms to the skillet. Stir them well to coat them in the garlic butter mixture. Cook the mushrooms for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should start to release their juices and become tender.
Add Smoked Paprika and Soy Sauce
Sprinkle the smoked paprika over the mushrooms and pour in the soy sauce. These ingredients add a smoky and umami flavor to the dish. Stir well to ensure the mushrooms are evenly coated.
Season and Simmer
Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the mushrooms simmer for another 3–5 minutes. This allows them to absorb all the flavors from the garlic butter and seasonings.
Garnish and Serve
Once the mushrooms are fully cooked and tender, transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with the freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Smoked Garlic Butter Mushrooms
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Button and cremini mushrooms work best for this recipe. They hold up well during cooking and have a rich, earthy flavor.
- Adjust the Smokiness: If you prefer a stronger smoky flavor, you can increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke.
- Serve Immediately: These mushrooms taste best when served hot. They make a great side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed on their own.
Variations
You can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences:
- Add Herbs: Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheesy Mushrooms: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the mushrooms in the last minute of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Best Mushrooms for a BBQ Side Dish
Choosing the right type of mushrooms can significantly elevate your BBQ side dishes. Each variety offers unique flavors and textures that can complement grilled meats and vegetables. Here are some of the best mushrooms to consider for your BBQ side dish:
1. Portobello Mushrooms
Flavor Profile: Portobello mushrooms have a rich, meaty flavor and a robust texture, making them an excellent choice for grilling.
Why They’re Great for BBQ: Their large size and sturdy structure allow them to be grilled directly on the barbecue. They can be used as a hearty side dish or even as a meat substitute for vegetarian guests. Marinate them in your favorite BBQ sauce or a simple olive oil and herb mixture for a delicious, smoky taste.
2. Cremini (Baby Bella) Mushrooms
Flavor Profile: Cremini mushrooms have a slightly deeper flavor than white button mushrooms but are not as intense as portobellos.
Why They’re Great for BBQ: These versatile mushrooms are perfect for skewers or grilled in a basket. Their moderate size and firm texture make them easy to handle on the grill, and they absorb marinades well.
3. Shiitake Mushrooms
Flavor Profile: Shiitake mushrooms offer a rich, umami flavor that intensifies when cooked.
Why They’re Great for BBQ: Shiitakes are fantastic for grilling because their caps stay firm and don’t become mushy. They are ideal for adding a deep, savory taste to your BBQ spread. Try grilling them with a soy-based marinade to enhance their natural umami flavor.
4. Oyster Mushrooms
Flavor Profile: Oyster mushrooms have a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture.
Why They’re Great for BBQ: Their unique shape and texture make them a visually appealing and tasty addition to any BBQ. They grill quickly and can be tossed with garlic butter or your favorite herbs for a simple yet delicious side dish.
5. Button Mushrooms
Flavor Profile: Button mushrooms have a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings.
Why They’re Great for BBQ: These are the most common and affordable mushrooms, making them a practical choice for large gatherings. Their small size makes them perfect for skewers, and they can easily be marinated to absorb a wide range of flavors.
Why I Love this recipe
One of the main reasons I adore Smoked Garlic Butter Mushrooms as a side dish for BBQ is their versatile flavor profile. The rich, garlicky butter perfectly complements the smoky undertones of barbecued meats.
Whether you’re grilling steak, chicken, or even vegetables, these mushrooms add a savory and umami element that enhances the overall dining experience.
Another aspect I love about this recipe is its simplicity and speed. Preparing Smoked Garlic Butter Mushrooms doesn’t require much time or effort, making it an ideal choice for BBQs where the main focus is often on grilling.
With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish while your meats are cooking on the grill.
Conclusion
Smoked Garlic Butter Mushrooms are a simple yet flavorful dish that can enhance any meal. With their rich, garlicky taste and a hint of smokiness, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this recipe and enjoy the delightful combination of mushrooms, garlic, and butter with a smoky twist. Happy cooking!
