Mushroom sauce
Mushroom sauce is a rich, creamy sauce that can transform an ordinary dish into an extraordinary one.
Mushroom sauce pairs well with many dishes, such as baked potatoes, roasted chicken or beef, pasta, meatballs, and steamed vegetables. Perhaps the most popular pairing for a mushroom sauce is with a beef steak.
Mushroom sauce can be made with any type of mushroom, but it is most commonly made with white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms.
There is little information as to the origin of mushroom sauce. However, the first mention of a mushroom sauce was in an 1864 cookbook under the name of "brown gravy".
The mushroom sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until needed. It can also be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Total Time:
- Servings: 4
- Course: Side Dish
Ingredients
- 350 g mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 200 g heavy cream
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp Parmesan (grated, optional)
- salt & pepper (to season)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over a medium heat.
- Add mushrooms and garlic. Stirring occasionally for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy/double cream, thyme and oregano.
- Season with salt and pepper, and bring the sauce to the boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer gently until thickened (approximately for 5 minutes). You can add the Parmesan here if you wish to, if not, add a little salt to season instead; Parmesan is salty so be careful!
- Serve hot.
Equipment
- pan
FAQ
Is mushroom sauce healthy?
Not really, whilst the mushrooms are; the butter and cream used are not; although using Crème fraîche would reduce the calories without impacting the taste much.
Is mushroom sauce vegan?
Yes, the sauce contains no animal products.
Is mushroom sauce gluten free?
Yes, the sauce contains no flour, flour is commonly used in many sauces to thicken them.
Is mushroom sauce keto?
Yes, the sauce is generally regarded as a low carbohydrate, but quite high-fat sauce.
How long does mushroom sauce keep?
Store cooled mushroom sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of stock or cream to loosen if needed.
Can I freeze mushroom sauce?
Yes, but cream-based sauces can separate slightly after thawing. Freeze in small portions, thaw in the fridge, and whisk while reheating to bring it back together.
What dishes go best with mushroom sauce?
It’s a classic with steak, but also works beautifully with parmesan meatloaf, Yorkshire puddings, or roast chicken.
Can I make mushroom sauce without cream?
Yes, replace the cream with milk thickened with a little flour, or use a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter option.
What variations can I try?
You can add a splash of red wine for richness, mix in herbs like thyme or tarragon, or combine with peppercorn sauce for a bold, peppery twist.
How can I make mushroom sauce richer in flavour?
Use a mix of fresh and dried mushrooms, sauté them until golden, and deglaze the pan with a little brandy or sherry before adding stock.
Can I use mushroom sauce in other recipes?
Yes — stir it through pasta, or use it as a base for casseroles and pies.
