Recipe: Pancetta, Broccoli Rabe and Asiago Stuffed Mushrooms

Pancetta, Broccoli Rabe and Asiago Stuffed Mushrooms

1 1/2 pound (about 18) large fresh white mushrooms
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 tsp. minced garlic, divided
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
8 ounces broccoli rabe or spinach, trimmed
8 ounces thinly sliced pancetta
1 cup diced red onion
1/3 cup freshly grated Asiago cheese
1/3 cup packaged plain dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
3 tbs. toasted pine nuts

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Remove stems from mushrooms (save for another use); place caps in a large bowl. Add 1/4 cup of the oil, 2 teaspoons of the garlic, the salt and pepper, toss to coat.

Transfer to a shallow pan; roast, rounded side up, until lightly cooked, about 8 minutes, remove from oven.

To prepare stuffing:
Blanch broccoli rabe in boiling water for 12 minute; drain well and chop (makes about 1-1/4 cups); place in a medium bowl.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until crisp, 4 to 5 minutes; remove from skillet; chop coarsely (makes about 1/2 cup); place in bowl with the broccoli rabe.

Pour off all but 1 tablespoon oil from the skillet; add onion; cook, stirring frequently, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes; add to bowl along with the Asiago (makes about 2 cups); mix well.

Turn mushrooms cavity side up. Spoon stuffing into mushroom caps.

In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs, parsley, pine nuts and the remaining 1/4 cup olive oil and 2 teaspoons garlic; mix well. Sprinkle over stuffed caps.

Bake until browned, about 8 minutes. Serve warm.

Yield: 18 Portions
Source: Mushroom Information Center