This hearty mushroom caviar is a beloved Russian preserve that transforms wild forest mushrooms into a rich, flavorful spread perfect for winter meals. With its chunky texture and earthy taste enhanced by aromatic herbs, this traditional recipe provides a delicious way to enjoy mushroom flavors all year round.
Ingredients
- 2kg forest mushrooms / 4.4 lbs mixed wild mushrooms (or substitute with cremini and shiitake)
- 300g onion / 10.6 oz yellow onions (about 2 large)
- 300g carrot / 10.6 oz carrots (about 4 medium)
- 20g garlic / 0.7 oz fresh garlic (about 6 cloves)
- 1 tbsp salt / 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp vinegar (9%) / 1 tbsp white vinegar (9% acidity)
- 100ml vegetable oil / ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ tsp dry thyme / ½ tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Prepare mushrooms: Wash mushrooms thoroughly and cut into large chunks, removing any tough stems or tubular parts. Boil in a large pot of water for 10 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Sauté vegetables: Dice onions and grate carrots coarsely. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet and sauté onions and carrots for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Grind mixture: Combine sautéed vegetables with boiled mushrooms and pass through a meat grinder using coarse or medium setting for chunky texture.
- Cook caviar base: Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot, add the ground mixture, thyme, and salt.
- Simmer slowly: Cook for approximately 20 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Final seasoning: Add vinegar and minced garlic, continue heating for 5 more minutes while stirring constantly.
- Remove herbs: Discard any fresh thyme sprigs if used instead of dried.
- Preserve properly: Pack hot mushroom caviar into sterilized jars, seal with sterilized lids, and cool upside down on a towel. Store in a cool, dark place.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Processing Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 6-8 half-pint jars
Nutrition (per 2 tbsp serving): Approximately 45 calories, 2g protein, 4g carbs, 3g fat, 1g fiber
Why Mushroom Caviar Is Nutritious
Mushroom caviar provides excellent nutritional value with high amounts of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals like potassium and selenium. Wild mushrooms contain powerful antioxidants and beta-glucans that support immune system function. The combination of vegetables adds vitamin A from carrots and sulfur compounds from onions and garlic, which have anti-inflammatory properties. This preserve is naturally low in calories while being rich in umami flavors, making it a healthy alternative to processed spreads. The preservation method retains most nutrients while creating a shelf-stable product free from artificial preservatives.