Button mushrooms can be found in grocery stores. It is inexpensive and familiar to many consumers. However, in recent years, it has been replaced by oyster mushrooms in some food industries, especially in Asian cuisine because of its unique flavor and texture, as well as its premium price in the market. This article discusses some of the reasons why this change took place, and how it has affected the food industries as well as the consumers’ eating habits.
Button Mushroom to Oyster Mushroom
A Food Industry Up-Cycle Begins: Already a billion-dollar industry and supporting more than 4,000 jobs in North Carolina alone, oyster mushrooms are poised to be a prime example of an up-cycled product that can make a big impact on both our local economies and our health. But how exactly do we go about making such a large leap?
Oyster Mushrooms
Button mushrooms have been a staple of Chinese cooking for thousands of years. But consumers are starting to switch up their tastes, opting for a more meaty texture and bolder flavor that translates well in stir-fries and soups. This change is being driven by increased demand from countries like China, Japan, Singapore and Malaysia—where key players such as Swire Group Ltd., Cargill Inc., Fung Hung International Holdings Ltd. and Tung Hung Holding Co.
Where to Buy Fresh Oyster Mushrooms
The best place to get fresh oyster mushrooms is at your local farmers’ market. If you live in a big city, there’s almost always one nearby. In addition, you can use Google or Yelp to find a farmer that has a small storefront within driving distance of your home. It may be easier than you think! For example, I found dozens of farmers that grow and sell their own mushrooms. When they aren’t busy selling out of their stores, they usually have enough fresh-picked mushrooms left over that they’ll put them up for sale at whatever farmer’s market will take them. here you can buy fresh oyster mushrooms.
How Long Do Oyster Mushrooms Last?
If you’re wondering how long do oyster mushrooms last, it depends on a few different factors. How soon after purchase can you use them? How long has that product been stored for? Do you keep them refrigerated? All of these things affect how long your product lasts.
Recipes with Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms are especially popular among vegetarians and vegans for their meaty, umami taste. It’s easy to swap out oyster mushrooms for chicken or beef in many recipes, but because they don’t have much flavor on their own it’s a good idea to marinate them first with soy sauce, garlic and other herbs and spices. And if you aren’t vegetarian, try adding them into soups or stews.
Oyster Mushroom Substitutes
Button mushrooms are popular due to their light and mild flavor, but they have a high water content that sometimes can leave a dish too moist. While similar in taste, look, and texture to wood ear mushrooms, oyster mushrooms have an appealing crunchiness that can be used as a perfect stand-in for cooked button mushrooms. Try tossing cooked dried or fresh oyster mushrooms into stir fries or use them instead of chicken breast meat for meatless entrées.