Shiitake Mushroom Walnut Pate

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 27 mins | Course: Small Bites | Serves: 12 

Shiitake mushrooms, onion and garlic, walnuts, and lentils star in this lovely pate spread. Inspired by Sam of It Doesn’t Taste Like Chicken https://itdoesnttastelikechicken.com/vegan-mushroom-walnut-pate/ 

1 ½ cups walnuts

1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic

1 ½ cups shiitake mushrooms

1 Tbsp brandy, optional

1 ½ cups lentils, cooked and drained

1 tsp fresh thyme + a garnish sprig

2 Tbsp parsley or cilantro

1 green onion, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook lentils according to package directions and drain. In a large skillet, saute walnuts, onion, garlic, and mushrooms over low heat, toasting the walnuts and softening the veggies for about 5 minutes. Add in the brandy, if using, and allow the liquid to absorb\evaporate for about 1 minute. Transfer ingredients to a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Add in the lentils 1 tsp thyme, parsley, green onion, salt, and pepper. Pulse until pureed. Transfer into a ramekin or other serving dish and serve with crackers or baguette slices. Garnish with thyme sprig.