Baked Mushroom topped Brie

Mushrooms are a valuable health food – low in calories, high in vegetable proteins, iron, zinc, fiber, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals. They have a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (6,000 years) and are known as some of the most potent immune boosters and disease fighters. Shiitake (for centuries called “Elixir of Life” ) has been licensed as an anti-cancer drug by the Japanese FDA. Lentinan has shown some effect on bowel cancer, liver cancer, stomach cancer, ovarian cancer and lung cancer. Reishi  contains calcium, iron and phosphorus as well as vitamins C, D, and B. Brown mushrooms (crimini) are rich in flavor and an excellent source of selenium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin B5, copper, niacin (vitamin B3), potassium and phosphorus. Not too shabby for fungus that has no roots, leaves, flowers or seeds!

Serves 8 (as an appetizer)
recipe adapted from Nat Decants
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250g (1/2 lb.) mushrooms, chopped
125ml (1/2 cup) onions, coarsely chopped
50ml (1/4 cup) finely chopped walnuts
1 large clove garlic, sliced
1/2 teaspoon each chopped fresh thyme, rosemary and black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 (200g) cold Brie 
2 tablespoons finely minced fresh parsley or chives (optional)

Combine mushrooms, onions, walnuts, garlic, thyme, rosemary and pepper. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir mushroom mixture for 5-7 minutes or until all liquid has evaporated. Stir in vinegar and cook 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature; cover and chill.

Preheat oven to 180c (350f). At serving time slice the wheel of Brie in half horizontally and place cut side up on oven-proof serving plate or baking pan. Spoon the topping evenly on cut surfaces of Brie. Bake 8-10 minutes or until cheese is beginning to melt. Sprinkle parsley or chives on top to garnish if desired. Serve with thinly sliced whole wheat baguette or plain crackers.

The Culinary Chase’s Note: Earthy flavors and the creamy rich brie make for a delicious appetizer.