Description
Kale and Mushroom Strata is a versatile and nourishing casserole perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. This savory dish combines fresh kale, earthy mushrooms, and smoky smoked turkey bacon with creamy plant-based cheese and fresh herbs, creating rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Easy to prepare and adaptable with simple ingredients, this strata is ideal for a wholesome, comforting meal that fills your kitchen with delightful aroma.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups stale bread cubes (use sturdy, slightly stale bread)
- 3 cups fresh kale leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 cups sliced cremini or button mushrooms
- 6 ounces smoked turkey bacon, diced
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese (cheddar-style or mozzarella-style)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables and Smoked Turkey Bacon: Wash and roughly chop the kale. In a hot skillet, sauté the kale with sliced mushrooms and diced smoked turkey bacon until the bacon is crisp and the mushrooms soften. This step enhances flavor and removes excess moisture which is important for the strata texture.
- Assemble the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), a pinch of salt, pepper, fresh herbs, and the natural gelling agent. This custard base will soak into the bread and bind all the ingredients together.
- Layer the Bread and Vegetables: Grease a baking dish and spread half of the bread cubes evenly on the bottom. Add half of the cooked kale, mushrooms, and smoked turkey bacon mixture over the bread. Sprinkle half of the shredded plant-based cheese on top. Repeat the layers and finish with a generous amount of cheese on top to create a golden crust during baking.
- Pour Custard and Rest: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered strata. Press down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the custard completely. Let the dish rest uncovered at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor and a better texture.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the strata for 45 to 55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is fully set. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving to ensure clean cuts.
Notes
- Use slightly stale bread to absorb the custard without becoming mushy.
- Do not over-sauté kale; cook just until wilted to preserve its nutrients and texture.
- Allow the assembled strata to rest for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
- Check custard firmness before removing from oven to ensure it is fully set.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
Keywords: kale mushroom strata, plant-based strata, savory casserole, breakfast casserole, brunch dish, smoked turkey bacon strata, vegetarian strata, gluten free casserole
