Lion’s Mane Mushrooms are ROARING Good

Not a fan of mushrooms? Don’t write off mushrooms until you’ve tasted Lion’s Mane mushrooms. I will admit that although I enjoy eating mushrooms, I don’t like the way they feel in my hands. To be honest, they give me the creeps. I suffer the agony of washing them with my hands to indulge in the taste. Surprisingly, the Lion’s Mane mushroom doesn’t freak me out as much as they have a completely different texture than the standard mushroom. The flavor and texture are quite different, too. I rate five out of five stars and highly recommend them as a substitute for steak. Yes, I said use these mushrooms to satisfy your craving for steak.

The Lion’s Mane mushroom has a rich history, possibly originating in China around 618 AD. This unique mushroom, which grows on the trunks of trees like the oak, is named for its appearance, resembling a lion’s mane. It was a staple in Chinese medicine, used to treat stress, anxiety, depression, and support brain and nerve function. In the U.S., it’s primarily found in powder and liquid form, but you can also find the mushrooms at select natural and whole food stores. With its rich vitamin content and unique taste, Lion’s Mane mushrooms are an excellent choice for a healthy meal.

When it comes to cooking Lion’s Mane mushrooms, there are various methods, but my personal favorite is sautéing them in vegan butter and garlic. After thoroughly washing the mushrooms, I gently press out the water between my hands to flatten the mushrooms. Since these mushrooms absorb flavor rapidly, I prefer to add minimal seasoning before taking them out of the skillet. I place the mushrooms in a hot skillet with vegan garlic butter and brown them on both sides for two to three minutes. This process allows the mushrooms to develop a rich, savory flavor and a crispy texture. They are so easy to cook. You can pair them with mashed cauliflower or mashed potatoes and sautéed broccolini. Your tastebuds will roar with delight.

Ronni Walker is a certified personal trainer and nutritionist with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in mass communication. She is committed to helping people transition to and maintain healthy lifestyles through the P.RE.T.T.Y. Girl Fitness project. You may contact by sending an email to coach@ PGF.life.