Mini Wild Mushroom Calzones Recipe

 

Mini wild mushroom calzones are a delightful snack or appetizer that encapsulates the rich, earthy flavors of wild mushrooms in a crispy, golden pastry. Inspired by traditional Polish mushroom foraging, these calzones bring back the comforting aroma of home-cooked mushrooms sautéed with garlic and herbs. The fragrant filling is encased in a pizza-like dough, making them the perfect treat for a cozy meal, especially when paired with a hot cup of barszcz on a cold day. Whether served as a snack, lunch, or party appetizer, these mini calzones are sure to impress with their robust flavors and flaky texture.

Ingredients:

Filling:

• 700g mushrooms (chestnut and regular)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 5 shallots, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, finely diced

• 20g dried wild mushrooms, rinsed, soaked in water overnight

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• Generous amount of ground pepper

• 3 tbsp breadcrumbs

Dough:

• 250g regular flour

• 250g bread flour

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp active instant yeast

• 2 pinches of sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 5 tbsp olive oil

Method:

Filling:

1. Prepare the Wild Mushrooms: Rinse and soak dried mushrooms overnight. The next day, boil them in their soaking water until soft. Finely chop them and reserve the mushroom water for soups or stocks.

2. Cook the Mushrooms: Clean and finely dice the fresh mushrooms. Heat olive oil in a large pan, sauté shallots until translucent, then add garlic.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the fresh and wild mushrooms to the pan and cook over medium heat until all the water evaporates.

4. Season and Finish: Stir in salt, herbs, and pepper, then cook until dry. Once cooled, mix in breadcrumbs and stir well.

Dough:

1. Activate Yeast: Warm water slightly, whisk in yeast and sugar, and let sit covered for 10-15 minutes until bubbles form.

2. Form the Dough: Combine flour and salt, add activated yeast mixture, and mix until a rough dough forms. Incorporate olive oil and knead for 10 minutes.

3. Proof the Dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rest in a warm place for 1 hour until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the Calzones: Punch the dough down and roll it out on a floured surface. Cut small circles using an upside-down glass.

Assembly & Baking:

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Fill and Seal: Place a teaspoon of filling onto each dough circle, fold in half, and pinch edges to seal.

3. Prepare for Baking: Arrange calzones on a greased baking tray, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and garnish with black sesame seeds.

4. Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.

Storage & Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with a side of barszcz or your favorite dipping sauce.

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.

Enjoy these flavorful, bite-sized mushroom calzones as a comforting and delicious treat!