I absolutely love mushroom bread pudding. It’s a comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a holiday gathering with friends and family. This savory dish combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the rich, custardy texture of bread pudding, creating a delightful culinary experience that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
To make mushroom bread pudding, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- Sourdough bread, preferably a day or two old, cut into cubes
- Assorted mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster, sliced
- Shallots, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh thyme and rosemary, finely chopped
- Eggs
- Whole milk and heavy cream
- Gruyere and Parmesan cheese, grated
- Butter
- Salt and pepper
Preparation
To start, sauté the mushrooms, shallots, and garlic in butter until they are tender and golden brown. Add the fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream. Place the cubed sourdough bread in a baking dish and sprinkle the cooked mushroom mixture and grated cheeses over the top. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the bread and let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid. Then, bake the pudding in the oven until it’s golden and puffed.
Serving
Once it’s done, let the mushroom bread pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. I like to garnish it with additional fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine.
Why I Love It
The beauty of mushroom bread pudding lies in its versatility. You can enjoy it as a main course for a vegetarian meal or serve it as a side dish alongside roasted meats. The umami-rich mushrooms combined with the creamy custard and crusty bread create a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Conclusion
Mushroom bread pudding is a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re a fan of mushrooms or simply enjoy exploring new flavors, this recipe is a must-try. It’s a delicious way to elevate a humble ingredient like bread into a luxurious and satisfying dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.