Creamy Mushroom Toast Recipe – Za’atar & Chili Flakes

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Creamy Mushroom Toast Recipe – Za’atar & Chili Flakes

Introduction

Okay, you guys, let me tell you about my latest obsession! This creamy mushroom toast is everything. It’s quick, it’s comforting, and it’s seriously bursting with flavour. I first made this when I was craving something a little fancy but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Now, it’s a regular on my brunch rotation, and I just had to share it with you all. Get ready for a flavour explosion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average toast. The earthy mushrooms, rich cream, and tangy yogurt create a beautiful balance. Then, the za’atar and chili flakes take it to another level! It’s perfect for a speedy breakfast, a light lunch, or even a sophisticated snack. Plus, it comes together in under 20 minutes – winning!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the magic happen:

• 200 grams button or cremini mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 sourdough bread slices
• 1 green chili (finely chopped)
• Dried oregano, thyme, parsley (to taste)
• Chili flakes, za’atar, black pepper (to taste)
• High-protein strained yogurt

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few tips to make this recipe shine:

• Sourdough Bread: Seriously, don’t skip the sourdough. The tanginess complements the creamy mushrooms beautifully. If you can get your hands on a really good loaf, even better!
• High-Protein Strained Yogurt: I love using strained yogurt (like Greek yogurt) because it’s super thick and adds a lovely tang. It’s also a great protein boost to start your day.
• Za’atar Spice Blend: This Middle Eastern spice blend is a game-changer. It’s a mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac, and it adds a wonderfully complex flavour. You can usually find it in the spice aisle of most supermarkets, or online.
• Mushroom Varieties: While button or cremini mushrooms work perfectly, feel free to experiment! Shiitake, oyster, or even a mix of wild mushrooms would be amazing.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Wipe your mushrooms clean with a damp cloth and slice them uniformly. No need to soak them – they absorb water like sponges!
2. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes, until they’re golden brown and softened. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the chopped green chili and your dried herbs.
4. While the mushrooms are simmering, toast your sourdough slices until they’re nice and crispy. I like mine really golden brown!
5. Spread a generous layer of whipped yogurt on each slice of toast. Don’t be shy!
6. Top with the creamy mushrooms. Now for the fun part – garnish with a sprinkle of chili flakes, a generous dusting of za’atar, and a little extra black pepper.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing the mushrooms. This will steam them instead of browning them. Work in batches if necessary.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
• For extra flavour, add a splash of lemon juice to the creamy mushrooms.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the butter for olive oil and the heavy cream for cashew cream or full-fat coconut milk. Use a plant-based yogurt, too!
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Simply use your favourite gluten-free bread.
• Spice Level Adjustment: My friend, Priya, loves to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Feel free to adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preference.
• Breakfast/Brunch Adaptation: Add a fried egg on top for a more substantial breakfast or brunch. My family loves this!

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately while the toast is crispy and the mushrooms are warm. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of colour. This is also delicious with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad.

Storage Instructions

This is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover creamy mushrooms in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving. The toast is best made fresh, as it will lose its crispness.

FAQs

• Is this toast suitable for a quick breakfast? Absolutely! It takes less than 20 minutes to make, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Can I use different types of mushrooms? Yes, definitely! Feel free to experiment with shiitake, oyster, or a mix of wild mushrooms.
• What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick. Cashew cream is a great vegan alternative.
• What is Za’atar and where can I find it? Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made with thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. You can find it in most supermarkets or online.
• Can I make the creamy mushrooms ahead of time? Yes, you can! Make the mushrooms up to 2 days in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.