Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (or 425°F for extra crispiness). This high temperature is essential for achieving that golden brown color while roasting the mushrooms.

Rinse, dry, and trim the mushrooms to your preferred size. If using larger mushrooms, consider cutting them in half or quarters to guarantee even cooking.

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, soy sauce (or balsamic vinegar), fresh thyme, and chopped parsley. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes to infuse the flavors.

On a large baking sheet, spread the prepared mushrooms in a single layer. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the mushrooms and toss them gently to coat evenly.

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast the mushrooms for 15-20 minutes. Be sure to stir the mushrooms halfway through to guarantee even cooking and browning.

Once the mushrooms are tender and caramelized, remove them from the oven. Discard the bay leaves, and garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

For best results, serve the roasted garlic mushrooms immediately after cooking. This dish is highly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different mushrooms or herbs based on your preferences.

Additionally, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat, or mix in some Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of these roasted garlic mushrooms!