OYSTER MUSHROOMS
Oyster mushrooms are medium to large in size with caps averaging 5-25 centimeters in diameter and a very short or non-existent stem. The caps are broad and fan-like, ranging in colour from dark gray, brown, tan, pink, and yellow, and have curled edges that become wavy and lobed with maturity. White gills extend from beneath the cap, and the flesh is white, meaty, and firm. Oyster mushrooms have a slightly chewy texture and are soft with a bittersweet aroma reminiscent of anise. Oyster mushrooms are beloved the world over for their delicate texture and mild, savoury flavour. Oyster mushrooms are more expensive than white button mushrooms but less so than rarer mushrooms like shiitake, and take little preparation as they can be used whole or chopped.
Oyster mushrooms contain vitamin B6 and D, fiber, potassium, and folate. They also contain an antioxidant called ergothioneine, which can help decrease inflammation in the body.
How to Cook With Oyster Mushrooms
Like all mushrooms, oyster mushrooms act almost like sponges, soaking up any water they come into contact with. Don't leave them sitting in water, even for the sake of cleaning them. Cultivated oyster mushrooms usually don't need much cleaning—simply wipe off any bits here or there with a dry paper towel. A damp paper towel can be used on extra dirty mushrooms.
Cleaned mushrooms can be sautéed, stir-fried, braised, roasted, fried, or grilled. Use the mushrooms whole, sliced, or simply torn into appropriately sized pieces.
While you can eat oyster mushrooms raw and they can be quite pretty added to salads, they tend to have a slightly metallic flavour when uncooked. Cooking brings out their delicate flavour, turning their spongy texture into something uniquely velvety. We recommend using oyster mushrooms for cooked dishes. Dried oyster mushrooms don't need to be soaked to be rehydrated the way other dried mushrooms do—just add them to the dish, and they will soak up liquid right away.
Oyster Mushroom Recipes
One of the most popular ways to cook oyster mushrooms is to stir-fry or sauté them. This requires a preheated hot pan, a small amount of liquid, and stirring. Make sure to give them space so their moisture can cook off, that way they will truly sauté rather than steam. Serve as a side dish or use in sauces, stir-fries, pastas, risotto, or even to top toast.
Because they get so silky when cooked, oyster mushrooms respond well to braising, too. Add them to soups and stews or sauces. The mushrooms can also be grilled whole on skewers, roasted, or dredged in a crispy coating and deep-fried.
· Vegan Mushroom Cream Sauce For Pasta
· Fried Mushrooms Shrimp, Mushroom, and Chinese Greens Stir-Fry
