Ingredients:
- 2 large Lion’s Mane mushrooms (fresh, not dried)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave syrup)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), optional for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mushrooms:
- Clean the Lion’s Mane mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth (don’t wash them under water, as they can become too soggy).
- Slice the mushrooms into thick “steaks,” about 1-inch thick. Depending on the size of your mushrooms, you should get 2-4 pieces from each.
2. Make the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar (if using), maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Taste the marinade and adjust the seasonings as desired. If you like it saltier, add more soy sauce; for more sweetness, add more maple syrup.
3. Marinate the Mushrooms:
- Place the mushroom steaks in a shallow dish or bowl. Pour the marinade over the mushrooms, making sure each steak is coated evenly.
- Cover and let the mushrooms marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. You can also marinate them for up to a few hours or overnight in the fridge for a more intense flavor.
4. Cook the Mushroom Steaks:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add a little bit of olive oil.
- Once the pan is hot, place the mushroom steaks on it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also grill the mushrooms for a smoky flavor.
- You may need to adjust the heat to ensure the mushrooms cook through without burning the marinade. The inside should be tender, and the outside should be slightly caramelized.
5. Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the Lion’s Mane mushroom steaks to a plate.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, and serve with a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve the Vegan Lion’s Mane Mushroom Steaks with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Grill Option: You can also grill the mushroom steaks. Preheat the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite flavors. Add a touch of mustard, a few drops of hot sauce for spice, or some fresh garlic for added depth.
- Serving Suggestion: These steaks go wonderfully with a creamy vegan sauce like cashew cream, or pair them with a rich, earthy sauce made with mushrooms or red wine.
These Vegan Lion’s Mane Mushroom Steaks are a show-stopping, meaty alternative to traditional steaks, perfect for vegan meals or impressing guests. Enjoy! 🌱🍄
