We’re obsessed with mushrooms! They’re the perfect vegan meat substitute for their delicious flavor and meaty texture, and they’re packed with nutrients. 

As part of the fungi family, mushrooms are rich in B Vitamins such as riboflavin, folate, niacin, and pantothenic acid. They’re low in calories and fat and cholesterol-free, as well as a great source of fiber. 

Mushrooms contain an array of minerals, including copper, potassium, magnesium and zinc. They’re excellent for heart health, skin health, digestive health, and your nervous system!

Mushrooms have been used since ancient times for their potent medicinal properties, and they’re seen in popular dishes across various cultures! 

There’s a huge variety of edible mushrooms, and all need to be prepared a little differently to maximize their flavor and texture.

Chef Ko's favorite ways to cook mushrooms:

Button Mushrooms

This kind of mushroom is the most commonly used in cooking. First start with cleaning your mushrooms. Unlike Vegetables, Mushrooms absorb moisture so the best way to clean them is with a paper towel. Clean each mushroom individually by holding it upside down by the stem, gently wiping off any dirt from foraging. 

Second, cut Mushrooms depending on the dish you are making, the smaller the cut, the crispier the mushroom. Start by heating your pan to medium heat. Add olive oil, then mushrooms, stirring to allow all mushrooms to receive oil. Once brown on the side that has been cooking, stir and add salt. Cook until golden and crispy, remove from pan and serve as a side dish or top any salad or pasta.

King Oyster Mushrooms

First start by cleaning up the mushrooms. These are typically clean already, but check for any dirt. On a cutting board, cut off the very end of the stem.

Second, cut into 1-1/2" cylinders. Once you get to the top, cut in 1/2. Now cut a hatch pattern into the flat sides of each "Oster". Once done, add salt and pepper to each mushroom on flat sides.

Third, using two cast iron pans of the same size, heat them both on the stove top. For one pan, add olive oil, then the mushrooms, flat sides down. Now place the second hot pan on top of the mushrooms. This creates a hot press that will sear your "Oysters," making them crispy on the hatch cut flat side, while retaining its meaty texture of the sea. Pull from the pan and serve with pasta or grits.

Portobello Mushrooms

The best way to cook portobellos is by roasting to retain their rich flavor. Start by cleaning off any excess dirt and dry with a paper towel.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Next, break off stems (you can set aside and use in a sauté for later). Coat mushrooms with olive, salt, pepper and any other seasoning you desire.

Place mushrooms on a lined sheet pan and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until golden brown. Portobellos are great for veggie burgers or vegetarian tacos!

Enjoy these easy mushroom recipes from Chef Ko!

Lions Mane Mushroom Fried Steak with Swiss Chard, Baked Agave Beans & Spicy Sweet Tots

Millet Tot Poutine with Shredded BBQ Mushrooms & Horseradish Cream

Millet Tot Canapé with Grilled Mushrooms, Caramelized Onion & Chive Spread

Smoked Tofu, Mushroom and Red Onion Kabobs with Italian Herb Tots & Greek Salad