Marineeritud Seened, or marinated mushrooms, is a classic Estonian appetizer or side dish that showcases the natural flavors of mushrooms enhanced with a tangy marinade. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for mushroom lovers and can be enjoyed on its own, with bread, or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients
- 500g fresh mushrooms (button mushrooms or any variety of your choice)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 bay leaves
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
Preparing the Mushrooms
- Clean the Mushrooms:
- Rinse the mushrooms under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- If using larger mushrooms, cut them into halves or quarters. Small mushrooms can be left whole.
- Blanch the Mushrooms:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add the mushrooms and blanch for 2-3 minutes.
- Drain the mushrooms and set them aside.
Preparing the Marinade
- Make the Marinade:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, white vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add Aromatics:
- Add the thinly sliced onion and garlic to the marinade.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are slightly softened.
Marinating the Mushrooms
- Combine Mushrooms and Marinade:
- Place the blanched mushrooms in a large bowl or a glass jar.
- Pour the hot marinade over the mushrooms, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
- Marinate:
- Allow the mushrooms to cool to room temperature.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to let the flavors meld. The mushrooms will become more flavorful the longer they marinate.
Serving
- Serve:
- Transfer the marinated mushrooms to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Variations and Tips
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to change the flavor profile.
- Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Vegetables: Include other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
Marinated mushrooms are low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They provide a good source of B vitamins, selenium, and potassium, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
Embracing Tradition
Marineeritud Seened is a wonderful way to experience the flavors of Estonian cuisine. This dish is often served during holidays and special occasions, reflecting the country’s love for preserving and enhancing natural ingredients.
Try this authentic Marineeritud Seened recipe and enjoy the tangy, savory flavors of marinated mushrooms. Whether as an appetizer, side dish, or a tasty snack, this traditional Estonian dish is sure to delight your palate.