Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's also healthy and easy to make? Look no further! This Walnut Mushroom "Meat" recipe is a fantastic vegetarian option, packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. It's a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest, and a great way to explore easy recipes with a focus on healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Walnuts: Drain the soaked walnuts and add them to a food processor. Pulse until they form a coarse crumbly texture, similar to ground meat. Don't over-process; you want some texture remaining.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until softened. Then, add the garlic, cremini mushrooms, and shiitake mushrooms. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and browned slightly.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the walnut crumbles, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything. Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Add Nutritional Yeast: Stir in the nutritional yeast. This adds a lovely cheesy, savory note to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Cook for another minute or two to let the flavors meld.
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Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Serve hot, either on its own or as a filling for tacos, pasta, or sandwiches.
Tips for Success:
- Soaking the Walnuts: Soaking the walnuts helps to soften them and makes them easier to process into a crumbly texture. The soaking time can be longer if needed, even overnight in the refrigerator.
- Don't Over-Process the Walnuts: Avoid over-processing the walnuts in the food processor, as this will create a paste-like consistency instead of the desired crumbly texture.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more or less salt, pepper, or other spices depending on your taste.
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots.
Variations:
- Spicy Walnut Mushroom Meat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Hearty Walnut Mushroom Meatloaf: Use this recipe as the base for a delicious meatloaf, adding breadcrumbs and an egg to bind it together. Bake in a loaf pan until cooked through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The exact nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate would be around 250-300 calories, 15-20g protein, and 15-20g fat per serving. It is naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a great option for a healthy meal. This recipe also provides plenty of vitamins and minerals from the mushrooms and walnuts, adding to its nutritional profile. This dish is an ideal example of delicious dishes that are also good for you. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of best recipes.
This Walnut Mushroom "Meat" recipe is a simple yet flavorful vegetarian option that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this easy and healthy meal!