There are many types of mushrooms you can buy, but not all of them are the best choice. Oyster mushrooms are among the most nutritious and delicious, making them some of the best options you can get at the supermarket or farmer’s market. These mushrooms are easy to use in recipes and have very little waste, so you’ll always be getting your money’s worth from each mushroom purchase. The following are some reasons why oyster mushrooms should be on your grocery list each week.
What Are Oyster Mushrooms?
“The oyster mushroom has a somewhat misleading name. Technically, it’s not really a mushroom but rather is part of a group called edible mushrooms (or Agaricus). The oyster mushroom is known for its versatility and can be used in everything from soups to salads. Its firm, meaty texture makes it ideal for stir-fries or as an alternative to chicken breasts in almost any dish that requires meat. Because of their neutral flavor profile, they pair well with just about anything you add them to. They are also surprisingly good in desserts like cake! Overall, you get a lot more bang for your buck with oyster mushrooms which is why they are always better than other mushrooms on store shelves. For example, they cost less per pound while still maintaining their quality taste profile and usability within dishes. This isn’t just a bit of marketing—oysters boast some awesome nutritional content too!
Nutrition Facts
“One oyster mushroom has only 25 calories, 3g of carbs, and 0g of fat. This can be compared to a slice of bread which is 80 calories, 19g of carbs, and 2.5g of fat. It is clear that oyster mushrooms are an extremely low-calorie, low-carb alternative to bread in sandwiches or bagels. It’s true, that you won’t get that same crispness from a piece of toast (although some people like a crunchy exterior), but there’s something about being able to swap out your carb source for more protein without sacrificing any other aspect of your sandwich experience. It allows for endless variations too – in terms of toppings and sizes – meaning you could eat your favorite breakfast sandwich over and over again without getting bored with it!
In addition to being nutritious, they have many beneficial health properties: Anti-cancer effects: Research shows that compounds in mushrooms inhibit tumor growth.
The Best Ways to Eat Oyster Mushrooms
Fresh oyster mushrooms are one of my favorite ingredients to cook with, and luckily they’re also one of the easiest types of mushrooms to grow yourself. Here are a few tips on buying, storing, and cooking with these elegant fungi! Try them fried or braised; they even taste great in soups (especially miso). But if you ask me, raw is best—they’re perfect in salads or sushi. No matter how you use them, however, one thing is certain: always buy oyster mushrooms instead of button mushrooms whenever possible! The reason? A quick lesson in mushroom biology: while both species belong to order Agaricales and genus Pleurotus, there’s one difference that matters: button mushrooms originate from a different growth stage than most varieties of oyster mushrooms.
Cooking with the Best Ingredients Matters
Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or making an appetizer for a friend’s party, cooking with high-quality ingredients matters. In fact, using better-quality foods can be one of the best ways to make your food taste great. If you want your recipes to turn out as intended and if you want them to taste good, buying better-quality foods is absolutely essential.
Grilling or Pan Frying
Fry your oysters in a frying pan for about three minutes on each side. Because oysters have a delicate flavor, it’s best to keep them simple and leave out seasonings. Do use high-quality butter for an extra decadent treat! Grilling is another great option for these low-calorie treats. Grill over medium heat for about five minutes on each side to make sure they reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees F before serving.
Chanterelle, Morel, and Shimeji – A Bit Less Expensive Options
For those on a budget, there are some great alternatives to oyster mushrooms. Chanterelles have a similar taste and texture but tend to be much more affordable. Morels are another great option for those looking for a mushroom that has a little different flavor; it’s a bit more earthy than your typical oyster, with flavors of nuts and honey. Shiitake mushrooms are also comparable in terms of their look and nutritional profile. There is a reason why shiitakes cost so much more than other varieties—they’re delicious! Still not convinced? Then keep reading as we discuss why you should always buy oyster mushrooms – even if they’re slightly out of reach at first!