About the Recipe
contemporary spin on a classic dish, this recipe captures the rich and earthy notes of mushrooms, complemented by the nutty depth of toasted walnuts. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and a touch of umami, this pâté is not just a spread—it's an experience. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or simply an epicurean adventurer, this pâté promises a delightful culinary journey, all in under 30 minutes of preparation. Perfect for gatherings, appetizers, or a luxurious treat on a quiet evening. Enjoy the fusion of tradition and innovation!
Ingredients
1 cup walnuts, toasted
1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
250g (around 2 cups) mushrooms, chopped (you can use button, cremini, or a mix of your favorites)
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 2 tsp dried thyme)
2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1-2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for added color and freshness
Preparation
Start by toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
In the same skillet, heat the oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or until fragrant.
Add the mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until they release their water and become golden brown, roughly 8-10 minutes.
Stir in the thyme, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Cook for another 2 minutes, and then remove from the heat.
In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, mushroom mixture, salt, black pepper, and nutritional yeast (if using). Blend until the mixture becomes a smooth, yet slightly chunky texture. You might need to stop and scrape down the sides of the processor a few times to ensure everything is well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. If you prefer a more pronounced flavor, you can add more soy sauce, lemon juice, or herbs.
Transfer the pâté into a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Chill for at least an hour before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld and the pâté to set a bit.