Chifteluțe de ciuperci

A vegetarian version of the classic Romanian meatballs, chifteluțe de ciuperci are mushroom balls. The mushroom balls or patties usually consist of ground mushrooms combined with onions, eggs, and crushed garlic cloves, seasoned with chopped parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. The mushroom mixture is shaped into balls or patties which are rolled in flour or breadcrumbs, and then fried in hot oil. Some versions also add potatoes, carrots, or a combination of both to the mushroom mixture. Mushroom patties can also be cooked and served with tomato sauce. A typical Romanian appetizer, they pair well with mustard or sour cream. Perfect during the fasting period, the mushroom balls can also be accompanied by a white sauce, lettuce, or rice on the side.