mushroom walnut pâté

mushrooms were super cheap at the market recently, which can mean only one thing – they are slightly old and have to be used fast.  i bought three or four containers so i had to think up a way to use a lot of mushrooms in one simple recipe.

by frying them up in a little oil and blending them with some tofu and walnuts i was able to make a large amount of tasty spread that i could use for days to come.  they were good on tiny toastettes and even better spread on some kalamata olive bread to make a sandwich.

mushroom walnut pâté
3 tbsp olive oil
1 lb mushrooms
1 small red onion
2 cloves garlic
1 block silken tofu
1/2 c walnuts
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper

begin by washing and chopping the mushrooms.  i used white mushrooms but you can use any kind you’d like, portobello or shitake would be delicious.  also chop the onion and mince the garlic.

heat the olive oil up in a large frying pan on high heat, then reduce to medium to sauté the mushrooms, onion and garlic.  cook for 3-4 minutes or until the onions and mushrooms are tender.

in a blender process the tofu until smooth, the add the sautéd ingredients, walnuts, salt and pepper and blend until even.

chill until the mixture thickens slightly.  spread over crackers or toastettes before serving.  it is also delicious on sandwiches!