Portuguese Mushrooms

Today, I’m bringing you a Portuguese mushrooms dish that is perfect as a side or main dish served with rice or bread. Sauteed with onion, garlic, olive oil, wine, and parsley, these mushrooms are simple to make with an excellent flavor payoff.

Since returning from Portugal last spring, I’ve been obsessed with their cuisine: the fragrant garlic, lush wine, and healthy dose of fresh herbs. The reliance on local, healthy ingredients prepared artfully harkens to their rich history. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, their food tends to include traditional Mediterranean elements focusing on what has always been abundant– seafood. But seeing as the nation was once a global superpower, their use of spices from distant regions also plays a significant role.

One might suppose that eating as a vegan in this country was difficult with all the seafood, but it was surprisingly simple! We loved using Happy Cow and following along in a Facebook Vegan in Lisbon group for ideas on where to go. Before I travel anywhere, I scope out the vegan Facebook groups in that area. And, of course, in this city, there were loads of cute streetside side patio spots to grab a glass of wine.

I love using my cataplana pan for these dishes because they retain moisture. And because of their built-in lids, they quickly infuse flavors into foods like mushrooms or tofu. In Portugal, you see mussels and other meaty dishes cooked and served in these pans, but they work so well on vegan dishes, too. Mushrooms are perfect for emulating the texture of chewier seafood and soaking up the rich flavors in this dish.

Cremini mushrooms are also known as baby bella mushrooms. They offer several health benefits and can be nutritious to your diet. Here are some facts about cremini mushrooms being good for you:

• Rich in Nutrients: Despite their low-calorie content, cremini mushrooms contain essential nutrients. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), copper, selenium, and phosphorus are some of them.

• Source of Antioxidants: Cremini mushrooms contain antioxidants, including ergothioneine and selenium, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

• Boost Immunity: Selenium is known to boost the immune system and has been linked to a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases..

• Rich in Dietary Fiber: Cremini mushrooms are a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and can help prevent constipation.

• Supports Heart Health: Combining antioxidants, fiber, and various nutrients in cremini mushrooms can contribute to heart health. Fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, and the antioxidants can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Here is my simple recipe for some flavorful Portuguese mushrooms without further ado!