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!For the topping, I recommend the Trader Joe's Chili Crisp or Trader Joe's Crunchy Chili Onion Sprinkle Seasoning Blend.
6King Oyster Mushroomsor substitute with your choice of mushrooms
Salt and Pepper to taste
Creamy Herbed Goat Cheese:
4ouncesGoat Cheesesoftened to room temperature
1tablespoonBasil Pesto
2teaspoonsOlive Oil
For Assembly:
4slicesThick Artisan Sourdough Bread
4Poached Eggsoptional
Trader Joe's Garlic Chili Crisp or Trader Joe's Crunchy Chili Onion Sprinkle Seasoning Blendoptional
Flat Leaf Parsley for garnishoptional
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
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.