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How to Cook Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Like a Pro

Lion’s Mane mushrooms are a unique, seafood-like alternative that can be used in various dishes. With their delicate flavor and meaty texture, learning how to cook them unlocks endless culinary possibilities. From sautéing and roasting to adding them to soups and stews, discover the best methods and recipes for incorporating this mushroom into your meals.
Author: Sophie Harper

Instructions

1. Cleaning and Preparing Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

  • Cleaning: Gently wipe the mushrooms with a damp towel or soft-bristle brush to remove any dirt.
  • Slicing or Tearing: For stir-fries and rustic dishes: Tear into chunks.
  • For even cooking: Slice thinly.

2. Cooking Techniques

  • Sautéing:
  • Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil (or vegan butter) in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add sliced or torn Lion’s Mane mushrooms.
  • Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  • Add garlic, salt, and pepper in the last minute for enhanced flavor.
  • Serving Ideas: Serve over toast, in pasta, or as a topping for grilled meats.
  • Roasting:
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Toss the mushrooms with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional herbs like rosemary.
  • Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  • Serving Ideas: Great as a side dish or added to a grain bowl with quinoa and veggies.
  • Adding to Soups/Stews:
  • Lightly sauté the mushrooms first.
  • Add them to your soup or stew and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  • Serving Ideas: Works well in miso soup, creamy chowders, or hearty vegetable stews.

Notes

  • Lion’s Mane Vegan Crab Cakes: Shredded mushrooms mixed with breadcrumbs, vegan mayo, Old Bay seasoning, and parsley, formed into patties and pan-fried.
  • Creamy Lion’s Mane Pasta: Sautéed mushrooms in garlic butter, served with a creamy Alfredo sauce.
  • Lion’s Mane Risotto: Add sautéed mushrooms to creamy Arborio rice with vegetable broth and white wine.
  • Stir-Fried Lion’s Mane Mushrooms: Quick stir-fry with snap peas, carrots, soy sauce, and steamed rice.