This Ali’i Mushroom Toast with Creamy Basil Goat Cheese and Crispy Garlic makes a delicious lunch. Add some poached eggs, and you have a decadent dish for breakfast or brunch!
This recipe is as easy as toasting bread, but delivers on flavor in a big way. Whether you’re craving a satisfying lunch, an impressive appetizer, or a fancy (and delicious) breakfast when topped with poached eggs, this Ali’i Mushroom Toast is a showstopper you can whip up at home.
What are Ali’i mushrooms (also called King Oyster Mushrooms)?
These majestic fungi are the stars of this recipe. Ali’i mushrooms, also known as King Oyster Mushrooms, are those beauties in the produce section with a long, slender, and slightly trumpet-shaped cap. They boast a meaty texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy goat cheese in this dish.
How do you score and prepare King Oyster Mushrooms?
King Oyster Mushrooms have a wonderful meaty texture, but scoring them helps them cook evenly and allows for the delicious flavors to seep in. Here’s what you do:
- Slice: Cut each mushroom lengthwise into two or three thick slices.
- Score: Take a sharp knife and gently make light, diagonal cuts across the top of each mushroom slice, creating a crisscross pattern. Don’t cut all the way through!
Where can you buy King Oyster Mushrooms online?
While King Oyster Mushrooms are becoming more widely available in grocery stores, you might have better luck finding them at specialty stores or online marketplaces. Here are a few resources to check out:
- Amazon Fresh: Sometimes offers King Oyster Mushrooms for delivery or pickup.
- Instacart: Local grocery stores may have King Oyster Mushrooms available for delivery.
- Specialty Grocery Stores: Look for online stores like Gourmet Mushrooms or Mycopia Mushrooms that specialize in all things fungi.
Alternative Mushrooms Instead of King Oyster Mushrooms
No worries if you can’t find King Oyster Mushrooms! Here are some great substitutes that still deliver fantastic results:
- Portobello Mushrooms: Slice portobello mushrooms thickly and score them in the same way. Their flavor is a bit more earthy, but they work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Cremini Mushrooms: Baby portobellos! Cremini mushrooms can be used whole or halved, depending on their size. They have a similar flavor profile to portobellos and cook quickly.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms have a stronger umami flavor. Slice them thickly and score for even cooking.
Health Benefits of King Oyster Mushrooms
King Oyster Mushrooms aren’t just a delicious ingredient; they’re also packed with some health benefits:
- Low in Calories and Fat: A great choice for weight management.
- Good Source of Fiber: Aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: King Oyster Mushrooms are a good source of potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin D.
- Potential Immune Benefits: Studies suggest King Oyster Mushrooms may have immune-boosting properties. (Disclaimer: Consult a medical professional if you have specific dietary needs or concerns.)
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Ali’i Mushroom Toast with Creamy Basil Goat Cheese
Recipe by Jason Hill – CookingSessions.comIngredients
Pan-Roasted Ali'i Mushrooms:
- 6 King Oyster Mushrooms or substitute with your choice of mushrooms
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Creamy Herbed Goat Cheese:
- 4 ounces Goat Cheese softened to room temperature
- 1 tablespoon Basil Pesto
- 2 teaspoons Olive Oil
For Assembly:
- 4 slices Thick Artisan Sourdough Bread
- 4 Poached Eggs optional
- Trader Joe's Garlic Chili Crisp or Trader Joe's Crunchy Chili Onion Sprinkle Seasoning Blend optional
- Flat Leaf Parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Make the Creamy Goat Cheese: Combine the goat cheese, basil pesto and olive oil. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pop the goat cheese spread in the fridge to chill while you cook the mushrooms.
- Prep the Mushrooms: Cut the King Oyster Mushrooms (or your chosen substitute) into three thick slices. Score the top side of each slice with diagonal cuts. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Get Those Mushrooms Crispy: Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot and shimmering, add the mushroom slices. Don't overcrowd the pan! Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Season again with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- For Assembly: Toast the sourdough and spread with the basil goat cheese. Top with grilled mushrooms, chili crisp, poached eggs (if using) and fresh parsley.
Notes
- Portobello Mushrooms: Slice portobello mushrooms thickly and score them in the same way. Their flavor is a bit more earthy, but they work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Cremini Mushrooms: Baby portobellos! Cremini mushrooms can be used whole or halved, depending on their size. They have a similar flavor profile to portobellos and cook quickly.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms have a stronger umami flavor. Slice them thickly and score for even cooking.
