Introduction

Savory Bread Pudding with Mushrooms & Herbs is a delightful dish that can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. This comforting recipe combines rich, earthy mushrooms and fresh herbs into a custardy bread base, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Not only is it a delicious choice for brunch or a cozy dinner, but it is also a fantastic way to use up leftover bread. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet family evening, this savory bread pudding is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details that make this dish so special!

Ingredients List

To prepare this Savory Bread Pudding with Mushrooms & Herbs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 8 cups of day-old bread, cubed
– 2 cups of mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup of milk (or your choice of plant-based milk)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of grated cheese (such as Gruyère or cheddar)
– 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter

Timing

Preparing this savory bread pudding is straightforward, with an estimated total time of about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how the timing breaks down:
– Prep time: 20 minutes
– Cooking time: 30 minutes
– Cooling time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even cook for your Savory Bread Pudding with Mushrooms & Herbs.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent (around 5 minutes), then add garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for an additional 7 to 10 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare Bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread with the sautéed mushroom mixture and sprinkle in the fresh herbs.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vegetable broth until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the bread and mushroom mixture, making sure the bread is fully soaked. Gently fold in grated cheese.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish and pour the entire mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow it to cool for about 20 minutes before serving. This savory bread pudding is best served warm, topped with extra herbs or cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Savory Bread Pudding with Mushrooms & Herbs offers the following nutritional benefits (based on 8 servings):
– Calories: 305
– Protein: 14g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 2g
This dish is not only comforting but also provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying option for any meal.

Tips

To help you achieve the best results with your savory bread pudding, consider the following tips:
– Use Stale Bread: Day-old or stale bread works best, as it absorbs the custard mixture better than fresh bread.
– Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, like feta or blue cheese, for a unique flavor profile.
– Add Protein: For added nutrition, incorporate cooked meats such as bacon or chicken to the mixture.
– Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.

Alternative Methods

If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few alternative methods to enjoy the essence of this dish:
– Single Serve Cups: Instead of a baking dish, use ramekins for individual servings. Adjust the baking time accordingly, about 15 to 20 minutes.
– Vegetarian Variations: Replace the mushrooms with seasonal vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a fresh spin.
– Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your savory bread pudding turns out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
– Over-soaking the Bread: While it’s important the bread absorbs enough custard, allow it to soak long enough to moisten but not dissolve.
– Underseasoning: Don’t forget the importance of seasoning throughout the cooking process, as this enhances the overall flavor.
– Not Letting It Rest: Always allow the pudding to rest after baking; this will help it set and make for easier slicing and serving.

Conclusion

Savory Bread Pudding with Mushrooms & Herbs is not only a culinary delight but also a simple and satisfying meal that can be tailored to your personal tastes. As we’ve explored, this dish brings together delicious flavors and textures, making it an excellent addition to any table. With a relatively easy preparation process, you’ll soon find yourself making this recipe time and time again for gatherings or intimate dinners alike. So why not give it a try? You won’t regret it! And be sure to visit my website for more delectable recipes and ideas to inspire your culinary journey.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this savory bread pudding a day in advance?
A: Yes, it’s an excellent dish that can be prepared ahead of time. Just let it cool, cover it, and your bread pudding can sit in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: What type of bread works best for this recipe?
A: Any hearty bread, like sourdough, French bread, or even brioche, will work well. The key is to use bread that’s a couple of days old for the best texture.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: If there are any leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Q: What can I serve with this savory bread pudding?
A: It pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables – perfect for balancing out the richness of the pudding!

Q: Can I freeze the bread pudding?
A: Yes, it’s freezer-friendly. Cut it into portions, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container. Just reheat in the oven when ready to serve.