Garlic Butter Balsamic Mushrooms

Suggested Meal Time: Dinner side dish / Appetizer
Estimated Calories: ~140–180 kcal per serving

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Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

• 500 g whole mushrooms (button or cremini), cleaned

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp brown sugar or honey (optional, helps caramelization)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or thyme

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

1. Clean the mushrooms by wiping with a damp cloth or rinsing briefly, then pat dry.

2. Keep them whole for a tender, juicy texture.

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2. Sauté the Mushrooms

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the mushrooms in a single layer.

3. Cook for 6–8 minutes without stirring too much so they brown properly.

4. When mushrooms release moisture, allow it to evaporate — this helps them caramelize.

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3. Add Garlic and Seasoning

1. Reduce heat to medium.

2. Add minced garlic and stir for 30–40 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar (optional), salt, and pepper.

4. Stir well to coat the mushrooms evenly.

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4. Reduce the Sauce

1. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the mushrooms.

2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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5. Finish and Serve

1. Remove from heat.

2. Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top.

3. Serve hot as a side dish, appetizer, or topping for steak, pasta, toast, or rice.

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Serving Notes

• Excellent with grilled chicken, steak, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

• Works as a vegetarian-friendly side dish packed with umami flavor.

• Add chili flakes for a spicy version.

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Who Will Enjoy This Dish

• Mushroom lovers.

• People wanting a simple but restaurant-level side dish.

• Perfect for low-carb, keto-friendly meals.

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Energy-Saving Tips

• Use a wide pan so mushrooms cook faster and brown more evenly.

• Keep heat medium-high at first to reduce cooking time and evaporation.

• Make a double batch and refrigerate — reheats in 1 minute.