Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

Lion’s mane mushrooms are a unique variety that’s incredibly delicious! Here’s a recipe for how to cook this tasty fungi.

Recently we ran across a variety of mushroom that caught our eye. Lion’s mane mushrooms! There they were on the shelf of a grocery store we frequent, so we had to try them out. As mushroom lovers, we’re always intrigued by new varieties. Turns out, the lion’s mane mushroom is absolutely worth experimenting with in the kitchen! Saute it up and it’s incredibly tasty on its own or in a sandwich with a little spicy mayo (our favorite). Here’s a bit more about this unique mushroom and why you should grab some when you see them.

What is a lion’s mane mushroom?

If you’re like us, you might be wondering…what is this intriguing fungus? Here’s what you need to know about this unique variety:

• The lion’s mane mushroom is a white fungus with a hair-like texture that bears resemblance to its namesake. It’s also known as the hedgehog mushroom and is native to North America, Europe and Asia.
• Where to find it? You can find this type of mushroom at some grocery stores or health food stores, farmer’s markets, or you can forage for it.
• Are there health benefits? Research shows lion’s mane mushrooms and their extract (used in over-the-counter health supplements) may have health benefits like protecting against dementia, reducing mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and repairing nerve damage. More studies are needed to fully understand the practical health applications of this mushroom (source: Healthline).
• What does a lion’s mane mushroom taste like? When it’s cooked, this variety of mushroom is delicate, tender, juicy and meaty. Some people say it tastes like seafood or crab meat.

How to store and clean them

Once you get ahold of your lion’s mane mushrooms, what’s the best way to keep them fresh? And how to clean them before cooking them?

• Store the mushrooms in a paper bag in the refrigerator (not produce drawer). You can leave them in the package they come in. But the best way to store mushrooms is in a paper bag, which allows them to breathe. Leave them in the main part of the refrigerator to get good airflow, not the produce drawer.
• Clean them with a quick rinse. Give the mushrooms a quick rinse to get off any dirt (don’t soak them or they can become soggy).

How to cook lion’s mane mushrooms

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to cook lion’s mane mushrooms to perfection – or jump right to the recipe below!

• Slice off the bottom of the mushrooms, then cut into slices. The bottoms are likely dirty: cut that part right off!
• Cook 2 minutes over medium heat. We like using a mix of olive oil and butter to cook in, but you can use all olive oil for dairy-free and vegan.
• Flip and cook 1 to 2 more minutes, then add seasonings. Once the mushrooms are browned on both sides, we add a little garlic powder, soy sauce and a pinch of salt. Taste and add more salt if desired!

Ways to serve this lion’s mane mushroom recipe

How to serve this mushroom? Here are a few ideas on how we’d use this recipe:

• Side dish: Yep, just throw them on a plate and gobble them up as is.
• Sandwich (recommended!): Here’s our favorite way to eat these: on a sandwich! Throw them on toasted bread with mayo or spicy mayo. The mushrooms taste so meaty and savory, it’s an incredible hearty vegan sandwich.
• Stir fry: You can also throw these mushrooms into a stir fry! Add them to Cauliflower Stir Fry or Go-To Tofu Stir Fry.
• Other ideas: Some people like to use this type of mushrooms to make vegan crab cakes. Try this recipe.

Ready to try it? Scroll to the recipe below!

More types of mushrooms

There are so many other types of mushrooms to try! Sample them all:

• Cremini Mushrooms (aka baby bella) and Button Mushrooms are ultra versatile for soups, pizza, pasta and more
• Oyster Mushrooms have delicate flavor and are great sauteed
• King Oyster Mushrooms are large and meaty, fantastic as a meat substitute
• Maitake Mushrooms (aka Hen of the Woods) have feathered edges and an earthy, peppery flavor
• Beech Mushrooms are small, delicate and savory
• Enoki Mushrooms are great for sauteeing or using to top ramen or a hot pot
• Portobello Mushrooms are a treat stuffed, grilled or in a burger with caramelized onions

This lion’s mane mushroom recipe is…

Vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free.

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