Deviled mushrooms: The heavenly sinful side dish your dinner party needs

Are deviled mushrooms the ultimate side dish idea for your dinner? Phrasing it as if they originated from hell might be a bit of a stretch; however, their otherworldly flavor is undoubtedly extraordinary. Seasoned to perfection, these mushrooms come in a sweet, spicy, and salty sauce, all topped with a generous dose of umami, a taste sensation quite appreciated in the East, sure to enthrall even the most die-hard mushroom skeptics.

All said, deviled mushrooms, although their recipe appears intricate and innovative, are actually quite easy to prepare. Rest assured, the few minutes you invest in this recipe will be well worth the outcome, and you'll inevitably find yourself coming back to it time and again. Also, keep in mind the health benefits this divine (or devilish, should you prefer) snack brings along. The combination of tomato passata, garlic, olive oil, honey (keep an eye out for these two, they're often counterfeited), and, of course, the all-important mushrooms, contributes to a beneficial blend for your body. As for the chili... don't hesitate to add as much as you're comfortable with. After all, these are "deviled" mushrooms, aren't they?

Ingredients:

• 1.1 lb mushrooms,
• 1/4 cup of tomato passata,
• 2-3 cloves of garlic,
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil,
• 1 tablespoon of finely chopped parsley,
• 1 tablespoon of finely chopped chives,
• a dash of honey (liquid form is most convenient),
• 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar,
• ground chili to taste,
• salt, pepper.

Preparation method:

1. Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Remember, if you're not consuming these mushrooms raw, there's no need to peel them — that'd simply be a waste of time. Cut them into smaller pieces or leave them whole if they're on the smaller side.
2. Fine chop or press the garlic through a press. Fry it in olive oil. Add honey, passata, and balsamic vinegar. This is also the right time to season the sauce with chili and ground pepper.
3. Season everything with salt and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for a few minutes. Then, add the mushrooms.
4. Allow to stew, covered, for about 15-20 minutes. Garnish with parsley and/or chives before serving. Enjoy!