10 minutes
This versatile, umami-packed seasoning blend combines the earthy richness of dried porcini mushrooms with the creamy texture of cashews and pine nuts. Enhanced with nutritional yeast and a touch of sea salt, it’s perfect for sprinkling on everything from roasted vegetables to popcorn.
Raw Cashews
cups
tablespoons
tablespoons
teaspoons
1. Grind the Mushrooms
Take your dried porcini mushrooms and grind them in a spice grinder until they reach a fine, powder-like consistency. This step is crucial because grinding the mushrooms releases their deep umami flavor, which forms the foundation of this seasoning blend.
2. Combine Ingredients
Once the mushrooms are ground, transfer them to a food processor. Add the raw cashews, nutritional yeast, pine nuts, and fine sea salt. These ingredients complement the umami richness of the mushrooms with their nutty and cheesy flavors, while the salt enhances and ties all the flavors together.
3. Pulse the Mixture
Pulse the mixture in the food processor until everything is well combined and you achieve a fine, grainy texture. This ensures that the seasoning is evenly mixed and ready to sprinkle on your favorite dishes.
4. Store the Seasoning
Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight container. You can store it at room temperature for up to two weeks, keeping it fresh and ready to use whenever you need an extra burst of flavor.
Before blending, toast the cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat until they're golden brown. This will intensify their nutty flavor and add depth to your seasoning. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
Opt for high-quality dried mushrooms, such as shiitakes or porcinis, for their robust flavor profiles. Before using, ensure they are fully rehydrated and then gently toasted to bring out their umami-rich taste.
If your recipe includes additional dried herbs and spices, ensure they are not past their prime. Freshness is key to a vibrant and flavorful seasoning blend.
Use a spice grinder or a high-powered blender to achieve the texture you desire, whether it's a fine powder or a coarser blend. A finer grind will distribute more evenly in dishes, while a coarser grind will add a more pronounced crunch and flavor burst.
To maintain the freshness and aromatic qualities of your seasoning, store it in an airtight container away from heat, moisture, and light. A cool, dark pantry or spice cabinet is ideal.
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