Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers
Introduction
Recipe and More
Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers are an exciting and flavorful way to elevate your grilling game. Perfect for backyard dinners or summer gatherings, this recipe combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar and the robust punch of garlic. The skewers are simple to prepare and make an excellent appetizer or a stunning side dish packed with delightful smoky undertones from the grill.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Recipe and More
This recipe calls for a harmonious blend of basic, pantry-friendly ingredients that you’re likely to have on hand. Combine these to create a marinade bursting with flavor. Below are the ingredients you’ll need:
– Fresh mushrooms, preferably button or cremini (about 1 pound or 450 grams)
– Balsamic vinegar (1/4 cup)
– Olive oil (1/4 cup)
– Soy sauce (2 tablespoons)
– Honey (1 tablespoon)
– Garlic, minced finely (3 cloves)
– Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon)
– Salt (to taste)
– Black pepper (to taste)
These simple ingredients come together to create an ideal balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, which complement the earthy richness of mushrooms perfectly.
Prep Time
Recipe and More
Preparation for these skewers is incredibly straightforward, taking only about 10 minutes. Start by cleaning and prepping your mushrooms. Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. Coat the mushrooms thoroughly in the marinade and set them aside to absorb all those rich flavors. If possible, marinate them for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Recipe and More
Cooking time for this dish is delightfully quick and only takes about 10 minutes on the grill. Ensure your skewers are soaked in water for 20-30 minutes beforehand if they are wooden, to prevent burning. Once the mushrooms are adequately marinated, thread them onto skewers and grill for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
Adding it all together, the cooking time, along with preparations and marination, results in a total time of approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Yield: This recipe serves 4 as a side dish or appetizer, but you can easily double the ingredients if you’re hosting a larger gathering of friends and family.
Enjoy the smoky, savory, and satisfying flavor of Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers—it’s the perfect dish for mushroom lovers or anyone looking to add a vibrant touch to their grilled menu!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. If using larger mushrooms, you can cut them into halves or quarters to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic (minced), soy sauce, dijon mustard, and thyme to create a marinade. Adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Marinate the Mushrooms
Place the cleaned and prepped mushrooms in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the mushrooms, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the mushrooms marinate for at least 30 minutes. If time permits, marinate them for up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
While the mushrooms marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
Step 5: Skewer the Mushrooms
Thread the marinated mushrooms onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Grill the Mushroom Skewers
Place the skewered mushrooms on the preheated grill. Grill them for 2 to 3 minutes per side, brushing them with the leftover marinade occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and slightly charred.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the mushroom skewers from the grill and serve them immediately, garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Prep Time
Allow extra time for marinating the mushrooms to ensure they fully absorb the flavors of the marinade.
Note 2: Mushroom Selection
Choose mushrooms like cremini, button, or baby portobellos for even cooking on the grill.
Note 3: Grill Alternatives
If a grill isn’t available, you can cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until tender, turning them occasionally.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
These skewers can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a main dish paired with a salad or rice.
Note 5: Storage
Leftover grilled mushroom skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on a grill or in the oven before serving.
Note 6: Substitutions
Feel free to substitute thyme with other fresh herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, according to your taste preferences. Additionally, tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Mushrooms
Start by ensuring the mushrooms are clean. Wash them gently and pat them dry. Remove the stems if desired, or leave them on for added texture.
Making the Marinade
Create a flavorful marinade by combining balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and seasonings of your choice. Whisk thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are well combined. Adjust the proportions to your taste preference for a balanced flavor profile.
Marinating the Mushrooms
Place the mushrooms in a bowl or a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Toss the mushrooms gently so they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, but longer marination can enhance the taste further.
Skewering the Mushrooms
Carefully thread the marinated mushrooms onto metal or wooden skewers. Ensure the mushrooms are evenly spaced to allow for even grilling. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
Grilling the Mushrooms
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewered mushrooms on the grill, turning them occasionally for even cooking. Grill the mushrooms until they are tender and slightly charred, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Basting During Grilling
While grilling, brush the mushrooms with any remaining marinade to enhance their flavor and keep them moist. Avoid overbasting to prevent flare-ups on the grill.
FAQ
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of mushrooms such as button, cremini, or portobello. Choose mushrooms that are firm and fresh for the best results.
Do I need to pre-cook the mushrooms before grilling?
No, there is no need to pre-cook the mushrooms. The grilling process will cook them thoroughly and infuse them with delicious flavors from the marinade.
How long should I marinate the mushrooms?
It is recommended to marinate the mushrooms for at least 30 minutes. However, for more intense flavors, you can marinate them for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I prepare these skewers without a grill?
Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the skewers in a grill pan on the stove or roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until they are tender and golden.
What other vegetables work well with this recipe?
You can pair the mushrooms with other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or onions on the skewers for added variety and flavor.
How do I store leftover skewers?
Store any leftover cooked mushroom skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the grill, stovetop, or in the oven before serving.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers and marinate them ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated until you are ready to grill, ensuring they are fresh and ready to enjoy.
Conclusion
These balsamic garlic grilled mushroom skewers are a flavorful and simple addition to any meal. Perfectly marinated, juicy, and slightly charred, they make an ideal side dish, appetizer, or even a light main course. With their rich and tangy balsamic flavor paired with the savory punch of garlic, these skewers are sure to elevate your grilling game.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Pair these mushroom skewers with an assortment of other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious platter.
Herbed Garlic Naan
Serve the mushroom skewers alongside freshly baked herbed garlic naan for a comforting and flavorful combination.
Steak and Mushroom Duo
Combine the balsamic garlic mushrooms with a perfectly grilled steak for a classic surf and turf-inspired pairing.
Fresh Garden Salad with Lemon Dressing
Serve these mushrooms on top of a fresh garden salad with a zesty lemon dressing to balance flavors and add brightness.
Creamy Polenta Base
Add these skewers as a topping to creamy polenta, creating a hearty vegetarian dish with amazing depth of flavor.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Complete your plate by serving the skewers with flavorful roasted garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting and fulfilling side.
Caprese-Inspired Spin
Layer mushrooms with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes, drizzle with extra balsamic glaze, and garnish with basil for a creative Caprese-like dish.
Quinoa or Rice Bowl
Make a wholesome bowl meal by including these grilled mushrooms with quinoa or rice, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
Grilled Shrimp and Mushroom Combo
Pair the mushrooms with grilled shrimp skewers to create an exceptional surf-and-earth grilled platter.
