Grilled Trumpets in Chili Crunch

These grilled trumpet mushrooms are savory, smoky, and packed with flavor. Scoring the mushrooms allows the sesame oil and seasonings to penetrate deeply while promoting even cooking. A finishing squeeze of lime adds brightness that perfectly balances the earthy, spicy flavors.

Ingredients

• Trumpet Mushrooms: 6-8 large mushrooms, cleaned and stems trimmed

• Sesame Oil: 2 tbsp

• Salt: to taste

• Black Pepper: to taste

• Chili Crunch: 1-2 tbsp (adjust based on desired spice level)

• Lime: 1, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Charcoal Grill

   • Light the charcoal and set up the grill for medium-high heat, creating a two-zone cooking area (one side for direct heat and one cooler side for indirect heat). Allow the grill to preheat until the coals are glowing and have a light layer of ash.

2. Prepare the Mushrooms

   • Lay the trumpet mushrooms flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to score the top of each mushroom in a shallow crosshatch pattern, cutting about ¼-inch deep. This scoring helps the mushrooms cook evenly and absorb more flavor.

3. Season the Mushrooms

   • Brush the mushrooms on all sides with sesame oil, ensuring they’re fully coated. This acts as a binder and adds a hint of nuttiness.

   • Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then gently spread the chili crunch over the scored tops, pressing lightly so it adheres.

4. Grill the Mushrooms

   • Place the mushrooms on the hot side of the grill, scored side down, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the tops are nicely seared and the mushrooms start to soften.

   • Flip the mushrooms and move them to the cooler side of the grill. Continue grilling for another 4-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and slightly charred around the edges.

5. Finish with Lime

   • Remove the mushrooms from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter.

   • Squeeze fresh lime juice over the grilled mushrooms just before serving to brighten the flavors.

6. Serve and Enjoy

   • Serve the mushrooms warm as a side dish, appetizer, or plant-based main course.

Tips

• Adjust Heat as Needed: If the mushrooms are browning too quickly, move them to the cooler side of the grill to avoid burning. Remember, the seasoning will burn before the mushrooms do.

• Garnish: For extra flavor, sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs like cilantro.

• Serving Ideas: These mushrooms pair well with grilled vegetables, rice bowls, or as a taco filling.

Enjoy these flavorful, perfectly grilled trumpet mushrooms with a smoky char and spicy, citrusy kick!