Cooking with Lion's Mane Mushroom: Delicious Recipes for UK Home Cooks

Published
04/09/2024

Welcome, home cooks and fungi enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the world of a unique and lesser-known mushroom, the Lion's Mane mushroom in the UK. This culinary curiosity is gaining popularity for its health benefits and meat-like texture, and it's time to bring it into your kitchens!

Getting to Know Lion's Mane Mushrooms

Lion's Mane, or Hericium Erinaceus, is a type of edible fungi with a distinctive cascading, icicle-like appearance. They're not just a treat for the eyes. Lion's Mane mushrooms have a succulent, seafood-like flavour, often compared to lobster or crab, perfect for adventurous UK home cooks looking to add a new twist to their meals.

Where to Find Lion's Mane Mushrooms?

While these exotic mushrooms are native to North America, Europe, and Asia, they have become increasingly available in the UK. They can be found in your local farmer's markets, gourmet food stores, and of course, online. Fresh and dried Lion's Mane mushrooms are both great options, each offering unique flavours and culinary applications.

How to Cook Lion's Mane Mushrooms: Two Delicious Recipes

Lion's Mane Mushroom "Crab" Cakes

This is a vegan-friendly twist on a classic dish, where the mushroom's natural flavour perfectly mimics crab meat. Ingredients:

  • 400g Lion's Mane mushroom
  • 1 finely diced onion
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • Your preferred spices and herbs

Instructions:

  1. Shred the Lion's Mane mushrooms using a fork, mimicking the texture of crab meat.
  2. Sauté the mushrooms and onions until tender.
  3. Mix in all other ingredients, form into patties, and refrigerate for about an hour.
  4. Fry until golden brown and enjoy!


Lion's Mane Mushroom Soup

Enjoy the subtle flavour of this mushroom in a warm, comforting soup. Ingredients:

  • 300g Lion's Mane mushrooms
  • 1 large onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 litre vegetable stock
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the onions, garlic and mushrooms until tender.
  2. Add the vegetable stock, bring to a boil, then simmer for around 30 minutes.
  3. Season to taste, serve and enjoy!


A Final Word

It's time to expand your culinary horizons with Lion's Mane mushrooms. These recipes are only a start; their versatile and unique flavour can be a springboard for numerous creative kitchen adventures. So, UK home cooks, why not take a walk on the wild side and give Lion's Mane mushrooms a try? Happy cooking!