Caramelized Garlic Mushrooms with Feta, Walnuts & Hot Honey Drizzle!

Caramelized Garlic Mushrooms with Feta, Walnuts & Hot Honey Drizzle—a flavorful dish that brings together savory, tangy, and sweet elements for a unique and satisfying experience!

Caramelized Garlic Mushrooms with Feta, Walnuts & Hot Honey Drizzle

Ingredients:

For the Mushrooms:

• 1 lb (450g) cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or oregano (optional)

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Hot Honey Drizzle:

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

Instructions:

Step 1: Caramelize the Garlic and Mushrooms

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown and caramelized.

4. If using, sprinkle in the fresh thyme or oregano during the last few minutes of cooking to infuse the mushrooms with extra flavor.

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts

1. While the mushrooms are cooking, toast the walnuts in a small dry pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Drizzle

1. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, and smoked paprika (if using). Heat over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until the honey becomes slightly runny and warm. If you like more tang, add apple cider vinegar and stir to combine. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Once the mushrooms are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter.

2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts over the mushrooms.

3. Drizzle the hot honey mixture over the top, generously coating the mushrooms.

4. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the caramelized garlic mushrooms as a side dish, appetizer, or over a bed of greens for a light meal. Enjoy the mix of savory, tangy, nutty, and sweet flavors in every bite!

Why This Recipe Works:

The caramelized garlic mushrooms are rich, savory, and earthy, creating a delicious base. The feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the crispy walnuts’ nuttiness. The hot honey drizzle brings a touch of sweetness and heat, rounding out the flavors and making each bite more exciting. It’s a balance of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist.

Tips for Success:

• Mushroom Variety: You can use other types of mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms to change the texture and flavor.

• Adjusting the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce to your liking. If you prefer it less spicy, start with just a little and taste as you go.

• Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, swap the feta for a vegan feta or another creamy, tangy vegan cheese alternative. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully plant-based version.

• Make it a Meal: Serve these mushrooms over cooked quinoa, rice, or pasta to make a hearty, satisfying meal.

Q&A:

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
A: Yes! Goat cheese or blue cheese would be great alternatives if you’re looking for something with a slightly different flavor profile.

Q: Can I prepare the hot honey drizzle in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the hot honey drizzle up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it gently before drizzling over the mushrooms.

Q: Can I use raw garlic instead of caramelizing it with the mushrooms?
A: You can, but caramelizing the garlic adds a more mellow, sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the mushrooms. Raw garlic will have a sharper, spicier taste, so it’s best to sauté it first.

Q: Can I make this dish without the walnuts?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer to skip the walnuts or need a nut-free option, the dish will still be delicious without them. You can substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a crunch.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: The mushrooms are best served fresh, but you can caramelize the mushrooms and prepare the hot honey drizzle in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and then just reheat before assembling and serving.

This Caramelized Garlic Mushrooms with Feta, Walnuts & Hot Honey Drizzle is a show-stopping dish that combines rich and savory flavors with a touch of sweetness and heat. It’s perfect for entertaining or just treating yourself to something extra special. Enjoy every bite!