When you’re looking for a delicious, meaty alternative to actual meat, mushrooms are your go-to choice. With a wide variety of mushrooms to explore, each brings its own unique texture and flavor, making them the perfect ingredient for plant-based dishes. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to nine mushrooms that can effortlessly replace meat in your favorite recipes.
Why Use Mushrooms as Meat Replacements?
Mushrooms aren’t exactly meat, but they’re often used in plant-based cooking because they share several properties with meat. From their rich umami flavor to their hearty texture, mushrooms are a versatile ingredient in creating satisfying, savory dishes.
Flavor
Mushrooms are famous for their earthy flavor, but what truly makes them stand out is their umami—the “fifth taste” found in foods like meat, soy sauce, and aged cheese. This savory element makes mushrooms a satisfying substitute for meat in many dishes.
Texture
Mushrooms offer a range of textures, from firm and chewy to soft and flaky. This variety allows them to stand in for everything from ground beef to pulled pork. When prepared properly, mushrooms can mimic the texture of meat in many familiar dishes.
Nutrition
Though not as protein-dense as meat, mushrooms are low in calories and packed with essential nutrients. They’re a good source of fiber, B vitamins, selenium, and even vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Combining mushrooms with other plant-based protein sources like beans or tofu can result in a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
9 Mushrooms That Make Great Meat Substitutes
1. White Button Mushrooms
Look & Taste: Small, white, and mild in flavor, white button mushrooms are a blank canvas for seasoning and marinades.
Best Used For: Add them to pizza, pasta sauces, soups, and stews, or mix them with lentils to create delicious meat-free tacos.
Pro Tip: Sauté or roast them to unlock their full flavor potential.
2. Cremini Mushrooms
Look & Taste: A brown version of the white button mushroom, cremini mushrooms have a deeper, earthier flavor.
Best Used For: Substitute cremini mushrooms for ground beef in recipes like shepherd’s pie, meatballs, or meatloaf.
Pro Tip: Use finely chopped creminis to add a meaty texture to sauces and stews.
3. Portobello Mushrooms
Look & Taste: Known for their wide caps and deep flavor, portobellos are rich and savory.
Best Used For: Grill them as a burger substitute, or slice them for sandwiches, fajitas, and tacos.
Pro Tip: Marinate portobellos in balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor boost.
4. Oyster Mushrooms
Look & Taste: These fan-shaped mushrooms have a delicate, seafood-like flavor when cooked lightly.
Best Used For: Perfect for plant-based versions of clam chowder, fish tacos, or stir-fries.
Pro Tip: Cook them quickly to retain their mild, seafood-like flavor.
5. King Oyster Mushrooms
Look & Taste: With thick stems and small caps, king oysters are firm and savory.
Best Used For: Their hearty texture makes them great for vegan jerky, pulled pork, or even “scallops.”
Pro Tip: Slice and sauté for a meaty, chewy texture that works well in BBQ dishes.
6. Shiitake Mushrooms
Look & Taste: Shiitakes have a rich, meaty flavor and soft, tender texture.
Best Used For: Use shiitakes as a substitute for bacon or in stir-fries, soups, and plant-based “beef” dishes.
Pro Tip: Cook shiitakes with soy sauce and maple syrup for a savory, smoky plant-based bacon.
7. Enoki Mushrooms
Look & Taste: These long, thin mushrooms resemble noodles and have a light, crunchy texture.
Best Used For: Add enokis to ramen, pho, or stir-fries as a noodle replacement.
Pro Tip: Trim the tough ends, and use enoki mushrooms to add texture and flavor to broth-based dishes.
8. Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Look & Taste: With a fluffy, almost crab-like texture, Lion’s Mane mushrooms have a mild, seafood-like flavor.
Best Used For: Substitute Lion’s Mane for crab or lobster in recipes like crab cakes or seafood pasta.
Pro Tip: Sear or roast these mushrooms to bring out their delicate flavor and texture.
9. Maitake Mushrooms
Look & Taste: Known as “hen of the woods,” maitake mushrooms have a feathery texture and rich umami flavor.
Best Used For: Grill or roast maitakes as a substitute for roasted chicken or steak.
Pro Tip: Break apart the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces for grilling or sautéing.
Experimenting with mushrooms opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re making plant-based burgers, tacos, or even seafood dishes, these nine types of mushrooms provide a satisfying, nutritious alternative to meat.
