California Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Introduction

Get ready to enjoy the best grilled portobello mushrooms with this California-inspired recipe. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame flat top cooktop, these hearty mushrooms are soaked in a buttery balsamic marinade and seared to perfection. With layers of rich, smoky flavor, this dish is a satisfying vegetarian main that will impress any guest. Serve them alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Let's fire up the Arteflame and start grilling!

Ingredients

• 4 large portobello mushrooms
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Shaved Parmesan (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over top of the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to build.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the flat top cooktop is sizzling hot and ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the mushrooms

1. Gently clean the portobello mushrooms with a damp paper towel.
2. Remove the stems and scrape out the gills with a spoon if desired.

Step 3: Make the marinade

1. In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika.
2. Place mushrooms in a shallow dish and coat them generously with the marinade.
3. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes while the grill heats up.

Step 4: Grill the mushrooms

1. Place the mushrooms gill-side down on the hot flat cooktop close to the center for maximum sear.
2. Grill for 4-5 minutes, then flip and grill another 4-5 minutes until they are tender and caramelized.

Step 5: Serve the mushrooms

1. Transfer the mushrooms to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and shaved Parmesan if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• For a deeper flavor, marinate the mushrooms for up to 30 minutes before grilling.
• If you like a smoky aroma, try adding a piece of hickory wood to the fire.
• Use a spatula to press the mushrooms slightly against the hot flat cooktop for an even sear.
• Keep an eye on the mushrooms, as they can cook quickly on the high heat zones of the Arteflame.

Variations

1. Garlic Herb Butter: Add extra minced garlic and a mix of rosemary and oregano to the marinade.
2. Spicy Chipotle: Mix in ½ teaspoon of chipotle powder for a smoky heat.
3. Asian Glazed: Replace balsamic vinegar with soy sauce and add a splash of sesame oil.
4. Cheesy Delight: Top the mushrooms with melted Gouda or sharp cheddar right at the end of grilling.
5. Sweet Maple Glaze: Swap balsamic vinegar for maple syrup for a sweet and tangy twist.

Conclusion

Grilling portobello mushrooms on the Arteflame brings out their rich, meaty flavor while keeping them juicy and delicious. Whether you're making them as a vegetarian main or a side dish, their smoky, umami-packed taste will impress every guest. Try some variations for different flavors, and don’t forget to pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables!

Best Pairings

• A fresh California citrus salad with arugula and avocado.
• Grilled asparagus with lemon zest.
• Quinoa and roasted vegetable bowl.
• Crusty artisan bread with roasted garlic butter.
• A glass of Sonoma County Pinot Noir.