Balsamic Glazed Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Thyme

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Thyme: A Vegan Delight

Welcome to a world where meatless meals are both sumptuous and satisfying. Imagine biting into a tender, juicy Portobello mushroom cap, richly flavored with a balsamic and thyme marinade—this is the promise of our Balsamic Glazed Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Thyme recipe. Easy and perfect for those who are looking for a substantial vegan option or anyone wanting to spice up their culinary repertoire, this dish proves that going meatless doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor.

A Culinary Journey Inspired by Nature

This recipe was born out of a love for the earthy, robust flavors that only mushrooms can provide. Inspired by traditional steakhouse techniques, we’ve transformed the humble Portobello into a main dish that rivals any meat-based counterpart. The addition of balsamic vinegar marries well with the natural umami of the mushrooms, while fresh thyme adds a whisper of summer gardens to the dish.

Why You’ll Love It

• Robust Flavor: The rich balsamic and garlic marinade infuses the mushrooms with deep, savory notes.
• Simple and Quick: With a prep and cook time totaling only 25 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Health Benefits: Portobello mushrooms are not only delicious but also low in calories and high in fiber, making them excellent for a healthy diet.
• Versatility: Serve these as a main, slice them up for a hearty salad, or sandwich them in a burger bun for a satisfying meal.

Quick Grocery List

For the Marinade

• Balsamic vinegar
• Olive oil
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh thyme
• Black pepper

For the Mushrooms

• Portobello mushroom caps
• Optional: Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Before You Begin: Key Prep Details

• Prep & Cook Time: 25 minutes total (15 minutes prep, 10 minutes cook)
• Equipment Needed: Grill or grill pan, mixing bowl, whisk, basting brush (optional), tongs
• Dietary Considerations: Gluten-free options available by substituting tamari for soy sauce
• Serving Size: Serves 4, 1 mushroom cap per serving

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Thyme – Easy Vegan Grilled Mushroom Steaks for a Flavorful Meatless Main

DifficultyEasy

Servings4 (1 mushroom cap per serving)

Prep time15 minutes

Cook time10 minutes

Total time25 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp soy sauce or tamari
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Mushrooms:

• 4 large Portobello mushroom caps, cleaned and stems removed
• Fresh thyme sprigs, (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

• 1

  1. Prepare the Marinade

  1. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.

• 2

  2. Marinate the Mushrooms

  1. Place cleaned mushroom caps in a shallow dish or zip-top bag.
  2. Pour the marinade over the mushrooms, ensuring they are well coated.
  3. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• 3

  3. Grill the Mushrooms

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Remove mushrooms from marinade (reserve excess marinade).
  3. Grill mushrooms for 4–5 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade while grilling.
  4. Mushrooms are done when they are tender and have nice grill marks.
• 4

  4. Serve

  1. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with fresh thyme.
  2. Serve hot as a main dish or hearty side.

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Basting brush (optional)
• Tongs
• Plate or dish for marinating
• Measuring cups & spoons

Nutrition

Calories	110
Carbohydrates	6g
Cholesterol	0mg
Fat	8g
Fiber	2g
Protein	3g
Saturated Fat	1g
Sodium	260mg
Sugar	4g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	6g

Important Tips for Cooking

• Freshness First: Always choose fresh, firm Portobello mushrooms for the best results.
• Marinating: Let the mushrooms marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up all the flavors.

Creative Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Needs: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free.
• Herb Choices: Rosemary or oregano can be great substitutes for thyme, depending on what’s available or preferred.
• Alternative Cooking Methods: No grill? No problem! These can easily be roasted in the oven or cooked in a grill pan on the stove.

Mastering the Art of Mushroom Grilling

Grilling Portobello mushrooms can transform their flavor and texture, giving them a meaty quality that’s hard to replicate with other cooking methods. The key to perfect grilled mushrooms lies in the heat of your grill and the timing—too hot and they dry out, too long and they become soggy.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Dish

• Marinate Well: Ensure each mushroom cap is generously coated with marinade for maximum flavor.
• Control the Heat: Keep your grill at a medium-high heat to avoid burning the delicate flesh of the mushrooms.
• Baste for Brilliance: Baste the mushrooms with leftover marinade as they grill for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional Insight

• Calories: Each serving is approximately 110 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option.
• Fiber: With 2g of fiber, these mushrooms help contribute to your daily fiber intake.
• Low Fat: At just 8g of fat per serving and rich in unsaturated fats, it’s a heart-healthy choice.

Storing and Reheating Your Grilled Mushrooms

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven for best results. They’re best enjoyed within 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I prepare these mushrooms ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Marinate the mushrooms and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill.

Q: Are there any alternatives to grilling?
A: Yes, these mushrooms can also be roasted in the oven for a similar effect.

Q: What are some serving suggestions?
A: These grilled mushrooms are versatile—enjoy them on their own, as part of a salad, or even as a burger!

Engage with us in the comments below or share your own version of this recipe on your favorite social media platform. Don’t forget to tag us so we can see how you’ve made this dish your own! Ready to explore more unique recipes?

See our other mushroom inspired dishes:

• Spicy Cajun Mushroom Étouffée with Creole Herbs
• Savory Thyme-Infused Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
• Comforting Savory Mushroom & Gruyere Bread Pudding (not Vegan, but Vegie)