FRESH LION'S MANE [Scientific name: Hericium erinaceus]
Lion's Mane has a long history of use in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, where it is highly regarded for its potential cognitive and neurological benefits. It contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, hericenones, and erinacines, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal properties.
Lion’s Mane mushrooms, also known as smart mushrooms because it has been found to have compounds such as hericenones and erinacines, that are stimulators of nerve growth factors. They have been found to support brain and nerve health, improve gut health, boost immunity, improve cognitive functions, and reduce anxiety.
These are also rich in umami, making the mushroom useful for both medicinal and culinary purposes.
It is often used in culinary applications, where it adds a unique flavour and texture to dishes.
Culinary use:
Can be stir fried or added to sandwiches , soups, sauces and stews.
Suggested use:
- Slice off the bottom of the mushrooms, then cut into slices.
- Cook for 2 minutes over medium heat. We like using a mix of olive oil and butter to cook in, but you can use all olive oil dairy-free and vegan.
- Flip and cook 1 to 2 more minutes, then add seasonings. Once the mushrooms are browned on both sides, we add a little garlic powder, soy sauce and a pinch of salt. Taste and add more salt if desired!
Vegetarian Lion's mane Mushroom Crab Cakes Recipe:
Ingredients:
225 grams fresh lion's mane mushrooms, finely chopped
30 grams breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
60 grams finely diced red bell pepper
60 grams finely diced celery
30 grams finely chopped green onions
15 grams fresh lemon juice
5 grams Green Apron's Umami Seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
15-30 grams olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 15-30 grams of olive oil.
- Sauté 225 grams of finely chopped lion's mane mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until they release moisture and become tender.
- Let any excess liquid evaporate.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushrooms, 30 grams breadcrumbs, 60 grams red bell pepper, 60 grams celery, 30 grams green onions, 15 grams lemon juice, 5 grams of Green Apron's Umami Seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape them into cake patties.
- Heat more olive oil (15-30 grams) in the skillet and cook the cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Place cooked cakes on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Serve hot as an appetizer or main course with a side salad or vegetables.
- Enjoy your vegetarian lion's mane mushroom crab cakes!
Health benefits:
Numerous healthy plant chemicals are to be found in lion's mane mushrooms. Research suggests that these compounds may stimulate the growth of new brain cells, improve depression and anxiety, and support gut, heart, and immune health.
Reference:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lions-mane-mushroom#depression-and-anxiety