Lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) have become popular due to their flavour, texture, and health benefits. Dried lion’s mane mushrooms make eating these tasty fungi easy. In this article, we will cover how to rehydrate and use dried lion’s mane mushrooms, proper storage and preservation, and some tasty recipes to inspire your cooking.
REHYDRATING & USING STORED LION’S MANE MUSHROOMS
Rehydrating dried lion’s mane mushrooms is easy and lets you enjoy their earthy flavor in many dishes.
20–30 MINUTES IN WARM WATER
Place the dried lion’s mane mushrooms in a bowl and cover them with warm water to rehydrate. Soak the mushrooms for 20–30 minutes until soft. As they absorb water, mushrooms expand, so they leave enough room.
SQUEEZE OUT WATER
Drain the mushrooms in a colander after soaking. Gently squeeze the mushrooms to remove water. Remove as much water as possible to avoid soggy food.
SIMMER, GRILL, SAUTE
Your favourite recipes can use rehydrated dried lion’s mane mushrooms. Sauté them with garlic and butter for a simple but flavorful side dish, grill them to enhance their natural smokiness, or add them to soups and stews for depth and richness.
STORING & PRESERVING
Dried lion’s mane mushrooms need proper storage to stay fresh. Follow these simple steps to keep mushrooms fresh and flavorful.
SEAL CONTAINERS
To avoid spoilage, store dried lion’s mane mushrooms in airtight containers. Glass jars with tight lids or resealable plastic bags are ideal for this.
KEEP COOL, DARK & DRY
Lion’s mane mushrooms should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry pantry or cupboard. Sunlight, heat, and humidity can spoil mushrooms.
ONE-YEAR SHELF LIFE
Lion’s mane mushrooms can last a year if properly stored. To maintain freshness, label containers with purchase or drying dates. If mushrooms show mould, off-odours, or texture changes, discard them and buy new ones.
LION’S MANE RECIPES
After rehydrating and storing dried lion’s mane mushrooms, try them in recipes. These delicious recipes highlight these versatile mushrooms’ unique flavour and texture.
RISOTTO
Lion’s mane mushrooms’ meaty texture is perfect for a creamy risotto. Sauté finely chopped onions and garlic in butter until translucent. Cook Arborio rice.
To toast rice, frequently stir for a few minutes. Slowly add warm vegetable or chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly. Add the rehydrated and sautéed lion’s mane mushrooms to the tender, creamy rice. For a luxurious meal, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top.
GRILLED STEAKS
Grill lion’s mane mushroom steaks for a satisfying vegetarian main course. After rehydrating the mushrooms, slice them into thick “steaks” and marinate them in olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, and your favourite herbs and spices for 30 minutes. Cook the mushroom steaks for 4-5 minutes per side on a hot grill or pan until they have grill marks and a slight crunch. For a balanced and satisfying meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a vibrant, leafy green salad.
SOUP
Lion’s mane mushroom soup is the perfect winter warmer. Sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery in butter until softened. Cook the rehydrated lion’s mane mushrooms for a few minutes to develop their flavour. Create a roux with all-purpose flour and slowly add vegetable or chicken broth. After boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Return the soup to the pot after pureeing it. Serve with crusty bread, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
STROGANOFF
In a creamy, flavorful stroganoff, substitute lion’s mane mushrooms for beef. Add the rehydrated lion’s mane mushrooms to the butter-sautéed onions and garlic and cook until tender. To thicken, add all-purpose flour, then slowly whisk in beef or vegetable broth and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yoghurt. Simmer the sauce until it thickens, season with salt and pepper, and serve over egg noodles or rice for a filling meal.
These tips and recipes will help you cook dried lion’s mane mushrooms. Try these versatile and nutritious fungi and impress your friends and family with your mushroom mastery!
