Mushroom Love!

February; it’s kind of a strange month as we’re in the throes of winter and we REALLY want spring. Thankfully we can consume lots of chocolate because of Valentines Day, and that helps. You know what else can help? Warm, delicious, sexy, buttery, Duxelle. Try this recipe, either medicated or not, and you’ll be feeling cozy and good.

                                                                GREEN DUXELLE

Duxelle is a French word for a delicious versatile combo of finely diced mushrooms, butter, herbs, shallots, and love. I’ve found this delicious paste-like stuff very handy to have around; top crostini, mix with pasta, fill an omelet, use on roast chicken…. When you have some of this in the fridge, you’re automatically a little fancier. To make approx. 2 cups of duxelle, you’ll need:

1 Lb. mushrooms; cremini, button, or a mix of ones you like

2 Tb. butter (use 4 Tb. if not using infused butter) divided

2 Tb. infused butter (mix this in at the end so you don’t waste cannabinoids)

½ C. finely diced shallot or onion

1 tsp. dry thyme   OR

2 Tb. finely minced fresh thyme or parsley

¼ C. dry white wine, Vermouth, or brandy

Salt and pepper to taste

Finely chop your mushrooms or whiz in a food processor till fine. Scrape the ‘shrooms into a clean kitchen towel, then wring out over the sink – this will guarantee nice dry ‘shrooms. Melt 2 Tb. of the butter in a large pan, then add the ‘shrooms, the shallot or onion, the herbs, and seasonings. Cook and stir for around 5-7 minutes, till the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown. Add the rest of the butter, swirl it around, then add the wine or Vermouth. Cook till the alcohol has evaporated, about another 2 minutes; if using infused butter be careful here as you don’t want it to cook too long. Adjust the seasonings then let the mixture cool and store in the fridge or freezer – so handy to have around!   www.maryjwhite.com