Savour the flavours of our Lion’s Mane Mushroom Steak adorned with vibrant chimichurri sauce. This plant-based delight offers a delectable alternative to traditional steak, boasting a meaty texture and savoury taste reminiscent of its carnivorous counterpart. The Lion’s Mane mushroom, with its striking appearance and delicate flavour profile, takes centre stage as the star of this dish. Seared to perfection, the mushroom steak captures a smoky essence while retaining its tender juiciness. Accompanied by a generous drizzle of chimichurri sauce, crafted from fresh herbs (parsley), garlic, tangy vinegar, and a hint of chilli, each bite bursts with a symphony of herbaceous, tangy, and spicy notes that dance on the palate. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or a curious epicurean, this Lion’s Mane Mushroom Steak with Chimichurri recipe is seriously one to try!
What is Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
Lion’s Mane mushroom, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, is a unique and striking edible fungus that grows on hardwood trees. It is characterised by its distinctive appearance, resembling a cascading waterfall of white spines or strands, similar to a lion’s mane. This mushroom is highly valued not only for its unusual appearance but also for its culinary and potential health benefits. When cooked, Lion’s Mane mushroom offers a meaty texture and a mild, seafood-like flavour, making it a popular choice for vegetarian and vegan dishes. It is actually also believed to possess various medicinal properties, including potential benefits for cognitive health.
What does Lion’s Mane Mushroom taste like?
Lion’s Mane mushroom has a delicate flavour profile with subtle hints of seafood, often likened to crab or lobster. Its taste is mild and slightly sweet, making it a versatile ingredient in a variety of dishes. When cooked, Lion’s Mane Mushroom develops a tender texture with a slightly chewy consistency, similar to that of scallops or other shellfish. Its unique flavour and texture make it a popular choice for vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as for those looking to explore new culinary experiences. Overall, Lion’s Mane mushroom offers a delightful combination of delicate flavour and satisfying texture, adding depth and complexity to any meal. If you haven’t tried it, you really need to!
Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom taste like chicken?
While Lion’s Mane mushroom doesn’t taste exactly like chicken, it does have a texture that can be reminiscent of certain poultry, particularly when cooked. When prepared properly, Lion’s Mane mushroom can have a tender, meaty texture that some people compare to chicken or other white meats. However, in terms of flavour, Lion’s Mane mushroom has a distinct taste that is often described as mild and slightly sweet, with hints of seafood flavours like crab or lobster. While it may not taste exactly like chicken, its texture and versatility make it a popular substitute in vegetarian and vegan dishes seeking to replicate meaty textures.
How to cook Lion’s Mane?
Cooking Lion’s Mane mushroom is a straightforward process that can be done in various ways to highlight its unique texture and flavor. Here’s a basic method for cooking Lion’s Mane mushroom:
- Clean the mushroom: Start by gently brushing off any dirt or debris from the surface of the Lion’s Mane mushroom. You can use a soft brush or a damp paper towel for this purpose. Avoid rinsing the mushroom with water, as it can absorb moisture and affect the texture. However, ensure it is clean.
- Slice or tear: Depending on your preference and the recipe you’re using, you can either slice the Lion’s Mane mushroom into thick slices or tear it into smaller pieces. The mushroom’s unique appearance makes it visually appealing, so consider showcasing its natural form in your dish.
- Choose your cooking method:
- Pan-searing: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Once hot, add the Lion’s Mane mushroom slices or pieces to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the Lion’s Mane mushroom slices or pieces with oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them directly on the grill grates and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until charred and tender.
- Roasting: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the Lion’s Mane mushroom slices or pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once cooked to your liking, transfer the Lion’s Mane mushroom to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if desired. Enjoy your cooked Lion’s Mane mushroom as a delicious side dish, appetiser, or meat substitute in various recipes.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom Steaks with Chimichurri
2
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14
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Ingredients
400 g Lion’s Mane Mushroom
2 tbsp Vegan Butter
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 tsp Celtic sea salt
1 tbsp Beetroot Juice
1/2 tsp Paprika
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Liquid Smoke
1/2 tsp Oregano
1/2 tsp Thyme
1 Fresh Rosemary
- Chimichurri
1/2 cup Fresh Parsley
1 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar
1/2 tsp Celtic Sea Salt
1 tsp Oregano
3 tbsp Olive Oil
2 Garlic Cloves
1 Chilli
Directions
- Start by by adding butter to a pan with rosemary. Once heated, add in your mushrooms. Sear on both sides, flattening them down with a spatula.
- Remove and add into a mixture of spices and beetroot juice to infuse the flavours. Leave in the mixture for at least 15 minutes.
- In the meantime, prepare your chimichurri by chopping garlic, fresh parsley and chilli. Add olive oil, salt, red wine vinegar and oregano. Mix to combine.
- Heat your pan and add back the marinated mushrooms with more butter and olive oil. Season with salt at this stage. Cook through on each side until you get a beautiful charring.
- Remove from heat once cooked through and slice. Serve on a bed of garlic mash and spoon over chimichurri.
Notes
- You can find Lion’s Mane Mushrooms at certain local farmer’s markets or grow your own through grow kits that are sold online
Nutrition Facts
- Total number of serves: 2
