Save This savory Hoisin BBQ Mushroom and Scallion Bites recipe transforms humble mushrooms into an addictive appetizer that disappears within minutes at every gathering. The caramelized edges and umami-rich glaze create perfect little bites of heaven that even dedicated meat-eaters can't resist.
I created this recipe when hosting a dinner party with guests who had various dietary restrictions. These skewers were the first empty plate of the night, with several friends requesting the recipe before dessert was even served.
Ingredients
- Cremini or button mushrooms: Their meaty texture absorbs the marinade beautifully while maintaining structure during grilling. Look for firm mushrooms with unblemished caps.
- Scallions cut into pieces: These add a mild onion flavor and vibrant color contrast. Choose bright green scallions with firm white bases.
- Hoisin sauce: This sweet and savory sauce creates the base of our glaze. Select authentic varieties with deep color for best flavor.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness. Opt for naturally brewed varieties for complex flavor.
- Sesame oil: Provides distinctive nutty aroma. Always choose toasted sesame oil for maximum impact.
- Rice vinegar: Balances the sweetness with gentle acidity. Use unseasoned rice vinegar for better control of flavors.
- Maple syrup or honey: Adds caramelization and subtle sweetness. Pure maple syrup works best for consistent results.
- Fresh garlic and ginger: These aromatics create the foundation of Asian flavors. Always use fresh for brightest taste.
- Chili flakes: Optional heat element that balances the sweet glaze. Adjust according to your preference.
- Sesame seeds and fresh herbs: These finishing touches add texture and visual appeal. Toast sesame seeds briefly for enhanced flavor.
Instructions
- Create the marinade:
- Combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes in a medium bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform. The marinade should have a glossy appearance with a consistency that will coat the back of a spoon.
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Clean mushrooms by gently wiping with a damp paper towel rather than washing them. Quarter larger mushrooms and halve smaller ones to create uniform pieces that will cook evenly. Cut scallions into 4 cm segments, making sure to include portions of both the white and green parts for flavor variation.
- Marinate thoroughly:
- Add prepared mushrooms and scallion pieces to the marinade bowl. Use a spatula to gently toss and ensure every piece is well coated. Allow vegetables to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to redistribute the marinade. This brief marinating time allows the vegetables to absorb flavor without becoming too soft.
- Preheat cooking surface:
- Heat your grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium high heat. The cooking surface should be hot enough that water droplets sizzle immediately when they touch it. For indoor cooking, ensure proper ventilation as the sugar in the marinade may create some smoke.
- Assemble skewers strategically:
- Thread mushrooms and scallions onto skewers in an alternating pattern, leaving small spaces between pieces to ensure even cooking. Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers. Pour any remaining marinade into a small bowl for basting during cooking.
- Grill with attention:
- Place skewers on the preheated cooking surface, listening for the satisfying sizzle that indicates proper temperature. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes total, turning every 2 to 3 minutes to develop caramelization on all sides. Brush with reserved marinade several times during cooking to build up layers of flavor. The mushrooms should become deeply browned with slightly charred edges, and scallions should be tender with light grill marks.
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer cooked skewers to a serving platter, arranging them for visual appeal. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped herbs. Serve immediately while still hot, with lime wedges alongside for guests to add a bright finishing touch if desired.
Save The hoisin sauce is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. Its complex sweet and savory profile creates a glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the grill. My family now keeps a bottle specifically for these mushroom bites, and my daughter has started requesting them for her birthday dinner instead of her previous favorite takeout.
Storage Tips
These mushroom bites maintain their flavor for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For best results, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy. The marinade itself can be prepared up to a week ahead and kept refrigerated, making this an excellent option for planned entertaining. Just whisk it again before using as the ingredients may separate during storage.
Creative Variations
While the basic recipe is fantastic on its own, you can customize these bites to suit various preferences or what you have available. Try adding cubed firm tofu for extra protein, or incorporate chunks of pineapple for a sweet counterpoint to the savory flavors. For a heartier version, include larger vegetables like quartered baby potatoes that have been parboiled for 5 minutes before marinating. This transforms the appetizer into a more substantial dish that can serve as a main course when paired with rice or noodles. During winter months when outdoor grilling isn't practical, these bites roast beautifully in a 425°F oven for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through cooking time. The high heat helps achieve similar caramelization as grilling.
Serving Suggestions
Present these skewers standing upright in a tall glass for a dramatic presentation at parties. For a complete Asian inspired meal, serve alongside coconut rice, quick pickled vegetables, and perhaps some crispy spring rolls. These bites also make an excellent addition to a Buddha bowl. Arrange them over brown rice with avocado slices, shredded carrots, edamame, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a satisfying plant based meal. For cocktail parties, remove the finished bites from the skewers and serve them with decorative toothpicks for easy eating while mingling. Place small dishes of additional sauce nearby for extra dipping.
Save Hoisin BBQ Mushroom and Scallion Bites are a delightful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Their quick preparation and irresistible flavor make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.