MUSHROOM CONFIT

Mushroom Preservation

Mushroom confiting is a technique inspired by traditional confit, typically used for meat. It involves slowly cooking mushrooms in submerged or partially submerged fat at a low temperature (around 200°F/93°C) for an extended period. This process results in incredibly tender, flavorful mushrooms with a rich, concentrated taste and silky texture.

Mushroom Confit Ingredients

Fresh mushrooms (choose flavorful varieties like porcini, chanterelles, cremini, or portobello)
Fat (high-quality olive oil, duck fat, butter, ghee, or a combination)
Herbs and spices (optional: thyme, rosemary, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns)

The Mushroom Confit Process

Clean the mushrooms thoroughly but avoid soaking them, as this affects texture. Cut them into desired sizes (halves, quarters, or slices).

Heat the fat in a pot or dutch oven over low heat. Add herbs and spices if using.

Add the mushrooms to the fat. Ensure they are mostly covered, but it’s okay if some tops peek out.

Maintain low heat (around 200°F/93°C) for 1-2 hours, depending on the mushroom size and desired tenderness. Check occasionally and adjust heat if needed.

Let the mushrooms cool in the fat. You can store them in the infused oil in an airtight container in the fridge for several days.

Choose flavorful fat like olive oil infused with garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary.
Don’t boil the fat; maintain a gentle simmer.
Use the infused oil for salad dressings, marinades, or sautéing vegetables.

How to Use Confit Mushrooms

Directly: Enjoy them as a warm appetizer or side dish with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful oil.
Sauté: Briefly sauté them in a pan for a crispy exterior and concentrated flavor.
Pasta: Toss them with cooked pasta, herbs, and parmesan cheese for a flavorful and decadent dish.
Pizza: Use them as a topping on pizzas for a burst of umami and richness.
Soups and stews: Add them to soups and stews for an extra layer of depth and flavor.

Enjoy the tender, flavorful experience of confit mushrooms! Remember, always adjust the recipe and ingredients based on your preference and experiment with different flavors and uses.