Flavor Profile
Oyster caps are tender with a nutty umami flavor when cooked.
Oyster stems have a mild earthy flavor with a firm, crunchy texture.
They are very versatile and cook quickly but are hard to over cook.
Medicinal Properties
Oyster mushrooms are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds, they also contain antimicrobial qualities.
Anti-Inflammatory: They may ease inflammation by reducing the release of indicators in the body. This could help treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Heart Health: Rich in beta-glucan fibers, which may reduce risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Beta-glucan fiber also produces immune-modulating actions that support antiviral and antibacterial effects.
Antioxidants: They contain antioxidants, including ergothioneine, which may help protect against chronic diseases and cell damage caused by free radical molecules. Ergothioneine may also help reduce plaque formation in the arteries, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Vitamins: They contain vitamin D and magnesium, which promotes bone strength. They are also a rich source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and brain function. Studies also show that B vitamins may help regulate blood sugar.
Culinary Preparations
Oysters can be stored in your refrigerator for about 4-8 days.
Sauté or stir-fry by heating oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms while allowing for space in the pan. Cook until they are browned and crispy, stirring occasionally.
Roast mushrooms in the oven at 450°. Begin by coating them lightly in oil or butter and season to taste. Evenly distribute on an oiled baking sheet, giving space between mushrooms. Bake until the bottom sides are blistered and golden brown, then flip each mushroom and continue baking until the other side is golden.
Fry in oil, after breading or battering until golden brown.
Marinate or season to taste then grill mushrooms until they are cooked through.
Lion's Mane
Flavor Profile
They have a delicate flavor that is both mildly sweet and earthy with a hint of umami.
They have a tender and soft fruit body with a meaty, stringy texture and subtle chewiness.
They are said to resemble the taste and texture of shellfish, so they're a wonderful substitute in traditional seafood dishes.
Medicinal Properties
Neurology: Stimulates the growth of brain cells and enhances memory, cognition, and focus. Relieves anxiety and depression
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties: Helps reduce inflammation to combat conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Promotes kidney and liver health and reduces liver inflammation.
Heart Health: Reduces high blood pressure, balances cholesterol levels and fights heart disease.
Healthy Digestion: Contains probiotics which strengthen the immune system and support healthy digestion.
Fights against stomach ulcers.
Cancer Risk: May help fight cancer cells and decrease the spread of certain types of cancer.
Risks - Lion’s mane can lower blood sugar and slow blood clotting, so people with certain contidions or on certain medications should consult their doctor before eating
Culinary Preparations
Whole Lion's Mane will last in the refrigerator for about 6-8 days.
Slice and sauté with oil and seasonings until both sides are golden brown. Add to any plate such as a stir-fry, soup, pizza, or casserole.
Shred by using your fingers or a fork to pull apart the fibers into strands to mimic crab meat or pulled pork.
Marinate the mushroom whole or season to taste. Then sear and press between two heavy skillets to create a flavorful and tender steak.
Dehydrate and put into a food processor until fine, then sprinkle powder onto any dish, e.g. soups, salads, dough. pastas, or stir-fries or into beverages e.g. coffee, tea, hot chocolate or smoothies to increase health benefits and enhance flavor.
Contains a high water content so be sure to cook thoroughly before adding to soups, sauces or gravies.
King Trumpets
Flavor Profile
King trumpets have a delicate, nutty flavor with notable umami.
Their flavor is mild, yet it intensifies as they cook and they readily soak up the flavor of a marinade.
Their stems have a firm, meaty texture and are often used as a meaty alternative.
They easily mimics seafood, specifically scallops.
Medicinal Properties
Heart Health - king trumpets can help lower LDL cholesterol in the blood. Rich in high-fiber content, sterols, proteins, microelements and low in calories they are ideal for diets designed to prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Immune Support- they contain beta-glucans which boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Brain Function - they are a good source of niacin, a B-vitamin that supports brain function and protects against cognitive decline.
Weight Management - low in calories and high in fiber, these mushrooms are a helpful addition to a weight conscious diet. They also support healthy bacteria in the gut, hydrate the digestive tract and contain helpful prebiotics.
Antioxidant Properties - they contain high levels of ergothioneine and glutathione, antioxidants that helps reduce damage from free radicals and oxidative stress. These may also reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Culinary Preparations
Stems - king trumpets are rare in that they are strongly desired for their stems. While their caps are delicious, the stems are typically highlighted in dishes.
Crosscut Slices - slice the stem thick to appear just like scallops. Sauté them in oil or butter over medium-high heat. Cook until golden-brown with a slight crisp.
Lengthwise Slices - thinner lengthwise stem slices are ideal for grilling, or roasting and will bring out their natural sweetness and add a smoky flavor.
Chopped or Shredded - chop or shred these with fork for smaller pieces to use as a meaty alternative in any dish; they are a wonderful substitute in our favorite comfort foods like bbq pork sandwiches, shredded chicken tacos, and any stir-fry.