Ingredients
- 1 pound mushrooms (button mushrooms work wonderfully, but you can experiment with other varieties like cremini or shiitake for different textures and flavors)
- 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted butter is best, as it allows you to control the seasoning of the dish)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (fresh garlic provides a bold, aromatic flavor, but you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch, though the taste may be less intense)
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves) (thyme adds a delicate herbal flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic and mushrooms)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, adding a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish)
- Salt and pepper to taste (these staples will help season the mushrooms and enhance the other flavors)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Start by preparing your mushrooms. Gently wipe them clean with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid rinsing them under water, as mushrooms are highly absorbent and can become soggy. If you’re using larger mushrooms, such as cremini or portobello, you can slice them into thick pieces, but for button mushrooms, simply halve or quarter them, depending on your preference.
Once the mushrooms are prepared, set them aside while you get the pan ready.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Use a wide pan so that the mushrooms have plenty of room to cook evenly. The butter will begin to foam as it heats up, which is a sign that it’s ready for the mushrooms. Be careful not to let the butter brown or burn, as this could add a bitter flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Thyme
Once the butter has melted, add the prepared mushrooms to the pan. Scatter them evenly so that they cook in a single layer. Add the thyme (either fresh or dried) and season generously with salt and pepper. The salt will help draw out the moisture from the mushrooms, allowing them to release their juices and cook down.
Stir the mushrooms occasionally, ensuring they cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan. After about 5-7 minutes, the mushrooms will begin to turn golden brown and tender. Their texture will soften, and they’ll shrink slightly as they release their moisture, concentrating their flavor.
Step 4: Add the Garlic
Once the mushrooms are golden and tender, it’s time to add the garlic. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. The garlic should soften and infuse the butter with its savory aroma.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
After the garlic has cooked through, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the garlic mushrooms with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Give everything one final stir to combine, and your garlic mushrooms are ready to serve!
Notes
- Mushrooms: While button mushrooms are the most commonly used variety in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other types of mushrooms. Cremini mushrooms offer a deeper flavor and firmer texture, while shiitake mushrooms provide a more robust, umami taste. You can also use a mix of different mushrooms for a more complex flavor.
- Butter Substitute: If you’re looking for a dairy-free or lighter option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil. While the flavor will change slightly, the oil still helps to sauté the mushrooms and infuse them with flavor.
- Garlic: If you’re not a huge fan of garlic or prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of garlic to suit your taste. Alternatively, roasted garlic can add a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
- Herbs: While thyme is a classic herb pairing for garlic mushrooms, you can try other herbs as well. Rosemary, sage, or oregano would work wonderfully and add their own distinctive flavors. Fresh basil or tarragon can also be used for a unique twist.
- Add Cheese: For an indulgent variation, sprinkle the mushrooms with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. The cheese will melt into the buttery sauce, adding a rich, salty flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the mushrooms. This will balance out the richness of the butter and garlic with a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes