How To Grill Mushrooms In The Grill

Grilling mushrooms is a fantastic way to bring out their natural flavors and create a delicious, savory dish. Whether you're a vegetarian looking for a hearty main course or a meat-eater looking for a flavorful side dish, grilled mushrooms are a versatile and tasty option. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to perfectly grill mushrooms on the barbecue.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

When it comes to grilling mushrooms, not all varieties are created equal. While you can technically grill any type of mushroom, some are better suited for this cooking method than others. Here are a few popular choices:

• Portobello mushrooms: These large, meaty mushrooms are perfect for grilling. Their robust flavor and firm texture hold up well on the grill.
• Cremini mushrooms: Also known as baby bellas, these mushrooms are a smaller version of the portobello and work well for grilling.
• Shiitake mushrooms: With their rich, smoky flavor, shiitake mushrooms are a great choice for grilling.

Preparing the Mushrooms

Before you start grilling, it’s important to properly prepare the mushrooms. Here’s how to do it:

1. Clean the mushrooms: Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid washing them, as mushrooms act like sponges and can absorb water, which will affect their texture when grilled.
2. Remove the stems: For portobello mushrooms, carefully twist and remove the stems. For smaller mushrooms, you can leave the stems intact.
3. Marinate (optional): Consider marinating the mushrooms in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs for added flavor. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Grilling the Mushrooms

Now that your mushrooms are prepped and ready, it’s time to fire up the grill. Follow these steps for perfectly grilled mushrooms:

1. Preheat the grill: Brush the grill grates with oil and preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place the mushrooms on the grill: Arrange the mushrooms on the grill, gill side down. Brush the tops with a little oil to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the mushrooms: Cook the mushrooms for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have grill marks.
4. Season as desired: Sprinkle the mushrooms with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend during the last few minutes of grilling.
5. Remove from the grill: Once the mushrooms are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled mushrooms are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to consider:

• As a burger topping: Use grilled portobello mushrooms as a delicious and meaty burger alternative.
• In a salad: Add grilled mushrooms to a green salad for a flavorful and hearty addition.
• On a skewer: Thread grilled mushrooms onto skewers with other vegetables for a tasty kabob option.
• As a side dish: Serve grilled mushrooms alongside grilled meats or fish for a simple and flavorful side dish.

Conclusion

Grilling mushrooms is a simple and delicious way to enjoy these earthy delights. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. So fire up the grill and give grilled mushrooms a try – you won’t be disappointed!