How to Caramelize Mushrooms

Caramelizing mushrooms produces intensely flavorful results, but it requires patience to execute properly. Mushrooms are incredibly moist and release a lot of liquid when cooked, making caramelization a tricky task. But with enough time, the liquid will evaporate and your mushrooms will become dark and flavorful, perfect for tossing on top of burgers, steaks, pizza, pasta and other dishes. You can use this method with just about any variety of mushrooms, though cooking times may vary for larger specimens.

Things You'll Need

Large skillet
Oil or butter

Salt

Instructions

Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a kitchen cloth or a damp paper towel, then cut them into slices. Avoid washing the mushrooms with water because it will cause them to soak up excess moisture and increase cooking times.
Heat a tablespoon or two of butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Place the mushrooms in the pan in a single layer and cook, without stirring, until they begin to release their moisture, about 2 to 3 minutes. Don't worry if the mushrooms don't begin to brown immediately; it takes a few minutes for the moisture to evaporate and for the caramelization to begin.
Stir the mushrooms when the bottoms begin the brown. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until all the moisture has evaporated and the mushrooms are nicely browned all over, about 5 to 8 minutes. Season the mushrooms with salt to taste before serving.

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