Few dishes capture the essence of culinary elegance and comfort quite like crepes. Originating from French cuisine, crepes have become a global sensation, appreciated for their versatility and adaptability. This recipe for Savory Mushroom-Stuffed Thin Crepes is the perfect embodiment of these traits. Featuring delicate, lacy crepes paired with a hearty mushroom and onion filling, this dish is both a feast for the eyes and a delight for the palate.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner, these savory crepes are as versatile as they are delicious. The balance of tender crepes and the umami-rich filling makes them an ideal dish for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet family meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Thin Crepes
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the batter.
- 170 g flour: The base of the crepe batter.
- 250 ml water: Helps achieve a light and smooth batter consistency.
- 250 ml milk: Adds a subtle creaminess to the crepes.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- 0.5 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the crepes.
- 10 ml vegetable oil (odorless): Prevents sticking and adds a hint of richness.
For the Mushroom Filling
- 500 g button mushrooms, chopped: The star of the filling, offering earthy, savory flavors.
- 2-3 medium onions, chopped: Add sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Season the filling to perfection.
- Vegetable oil and butter, for frying: Create a rich base for sautéing the ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crepe Batter
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk, water, and vegetable oil.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the flour, sugar, and salt. Whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
- Rest the Batter: Cover and let the batter rest for 20-30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in tender crepes.
Step 2: Cook the Crepes
- Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick crepe pan or skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with a small amount of oil or butter.
- Cook the Crepes: Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan, tilting to spread it evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges begin to lift and the underside is golden. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Set Aside: Transfer the cooked crepes to a plate, stacking them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Step 3: Prepare the Mushroom Filling
- Sauté Onions: Heat a mixture of butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, stirring to combine. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Crepes
- Fill the Crepes: Place a crepe on a flat surface. Spoon a generous amount of the mushroom filling onto the center. Fold the crepe into a rectangle, triangle, or roll, depending on your preference.
- Optional Browning: Heat a clean skillet with a bit of butter. Sear the filled crepes on both sides for 1-2 minutes to create a crispy exterior.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the crepes on a serving platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Serve warm, either on their own or with a side salad, sour cream, or a dollop of crème fraîche.
Prep Time
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time
- 40 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 225 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Why This Recipe Is Timeless
Crepes are a culinary classic with a rich history, enjoyed in many forms across the globe. This particular version, filled with mushrooms and onions, highlights the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients. The delicate texture of the crepes perfectly complements the savory richness of the filling, making this dish both satisfying and elegant.
The timelessness of this recipe lies in its versatility. It’s perfect for any meal of the day, adaptable to various dietary preferences, and endlessly customizable. While this recipe celebrates mushrooms, you can easily substitute the filling with ingredients like spinach and ricotta, chicken and cheese, or even sweet options like Nutella and strawberries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the crepes in advance?
Yes! You can make the crepes up to a day ahead. Stack them with parchment paper in between, wrap tightly in plastic, and store in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet before filling.
What other fillings can I use?
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Try fillings like sautéed spinach and feta, ham and cheese, or roasted vegetables with goat cheese.
Can I use store-bought crepes?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-made crepes are a convenient alternative. Just ensure they’re fresh and pliable for easy filling.
How do I prevent the crepes from sticking?
Using a non-stick pan and greasing it lightly between each crepe helps prevent sticking. Also, ensure the pan is hot before adding the batter.
Tips for Success
- Rest the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest ensures a smoother texture and prevents tearing during cooking.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the crepes, as this can make them difficult to fold or roll.
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: A quality non-stick pan or crepe maker ensures perfect, lacy crepes every time.
- Customize to Taste: Add fresh herbs, cheese, or spices to the filling to make it uniquely yours.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover crepes and filling separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Unfilled crepes can be frozen. Stack them with parchment paper in between, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Conclusion
These Savory Mushroom-Stuffed Thin Crepes are a testament to the enduring charm of simple yet sophisticated cuisine. The perfect balance of delicate crepes and flavorful mushroom filling makes this dish a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether served as a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or an elegant dinner, these crepes are guaranteed to impress.
What truly makes this recipe timeless is its adaptability. It’s a dish that invites creativity, allowing you to experiment with fillings and accompaniments to suit your taste. Once you master the art of making crepes, the possibilities are endless. So gather your ingredients, heat your skillet, and enjoy the magic of this classic dish.