On the Grill

Mushrooms are a staple in many plant-based kitchens, loved for their versatility, hearty texture, and ability to soak up flavors like a sponge. Whether you’re making stir-fries, pasta dishes, tacos, or grilled skewers, a well-crafted marinade can take your mushrooms to the next level. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of marinating mushrooms, how different ingredients influence their flavor, and creative ways to incorporate balsamic marinated mushrooms into your meals.

Why Marinate Mushrooms?

Unlike other vegetables, mushrooms have a porous structure, which allows them to absorb marinades effectively. This unique characteristic makes them ideal for soaking up a rich blend of seasonings and spices, enhancing their taste and texture. Here are some key reasons to marinate mushrooms:

Enhances Flavor Depth

Mushrooms naturally have an earthy, umami taste. A good marinade can amplify these flavors, creating a savory, smoky, tangy, or slightly sweet profile depending on your ingredient choices.

Improves Texture

Marinating can slightly soften mushrooms, making them even more enjoyable to eat. This is particularly useful when preparing firmer varieties like Portobello or cremini mushrooms.

Creates Versatility in Cooking

Once marinated, mushrooms can be grilled, sautéed, roasted, or even eaten raw in salads, making them a versatile ingredient in plant-based cooking.

How Long Should You Marinate Mushrooms?

Mushrooms absorb marinade more quickly than proteins or other vegetables, so you don’t need to let them sit for hours. Here’s a general guideline:

• Quick marinade: 15-30 minutes for a light flavor boost
• Medium intensity: 1-2 hours for a well-rounded taste
• Deep flavor infusion: 4-8 hours for a robust, deeply infused flavor

Over-marinating can sometimes cause mushrooms to become too soft or break down, so it’s best to monitor their texture based on your cooking method.

Best Cooking Methods for Marinated Mushrooms

Once your mushrooms have absorbed all that flavorful goodness, it’s time to cook them! Here are the best methods to bring out their full potential:

Sautéing

One of the easiest and quickest methods, sautéing marinated mushrooms in a hot pan with a little extra oil enhances their texture and caramelizes the marinade.

Grilling

Marinated mushrooms, especially portobellos, hold up beautifully on the grill. They develop a smoky char that pairs well with burgers, skewers, and wraps.

Roasting

Baking marinated mushrooms at a high temperature (400°F or higher) concentrates their flavors and creates a slightly crispy exterior.

How to Make Balsamic Marinated Mushrooms

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp Braggs
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (vegan)
• 1 Tbsp Liquid Smoke
• 1 Tbsp Balsamic vinaigrette
• 1 Tbsp Agave Nectar or Maple Syrup
• 1 Tbsp Cooking Sherry (optional, I use in Italian dishes but not Mexican)
• 1/2 to 1 cup of water
• Mushrooms of your choice, we prefer Portobello

Instructions

Step 1 – Combine Liquids

Mix all liquids for the marinade in a large bowl and stir to incorporate them all.

Step 2 – Clean Mushrooms

Wash mushrooms and pat dry.

Step 3 – Add to Marinade

You can slice the mushrooms or leave them whole, depending on the intended use. Then add them to the marinade.

Step 4 – Soak

Let them soak 15-30 minutes, stirring or flipping occasionally.

Step 5 – Cook

Cook the mushrooms however you prefer.

Creative Ways to Use Marinated Mushrooms

Now that you have perfectly marinated mushrooms, how can you incorporate them into your meals? Here are some ideas:

Mushroom Tacos

Grill or sauté marinated mushrooms and serve them in warm tortillas with avocado, salsa, and fresh cilantro for a delicious taco night.

Pasta Toppings

Toss marinated mushrooms with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and spinach for a quick, flavorful meal.

Plant-Based Burgers

Grilled Portobello mushrooms make an excellent meat alternative for burgers. Layer them with lettuce, tomato, and a zesty mustard. Get my Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger recipe here.

Buddha Bowls

Add roasted marinated mushrooms to grain bowls along with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and a creamy tahini dressing.

Vegan Fajitas

Sauté mushrooms with bell peppers and onions for a delicious fajita filling, served with warm tortillas and guacamole.

Stir-Fries

Use marinated mushrooms as a flavorful addition to stir-fried veggies and tofu over steamed rice or noodles.

Wraps and Sandwiches

Marinated mushrooms work well as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, paired with hummus, fresh greens, and roasted peppers.

More Plant Based Recipes

If you like this recipe, you’ll love these plant based ideas too:

• Spicy Vegan Ranch Dressing
• Homemade BBQ Sauce
• Raspberry Vinaigrette Salad Dressing
• Homemade Ketchup: No Sugar Added
• Oil-Free Hummus