King Oyster Mushrooms are a beautiful mushroom with a unique taste and texture as well as impressive health benefits.
King Oyster mushrooms have become very popular in gourmet restaurants due to their silky texture and elegant look: a long, wide stem and a large cap.
All parts of this mushroom are edible.
Many tend to think that King Oyster originated in Asia. However, this mushroom actually grows naturally in the Mediterranean region on wild roots.
Health benefits and natural qualities- King Oyster mushrooms are a good source for anti-oxidants known to protect against diseases and early aging as well as their destructive effects on body cells.
King Oyster mushrooms contain a large amount of the rare amino acid L- ergothioneine at a rate 40 times higher than in wheat sprouts and chicken liver. This amino-acid remains in the mushroom even after cooking.
King Oyster is low in calories, rich in nutritional fibers , contains no cholesterol and may also be effective in reducing blood cholesterol levels.
Preparation- Cut off about one centimeter from the bottom of the stem since it is harder than the rest of the mushroom. The King Oyster mushroom can be sliced throughout its’ length or breadth or even diagonally.
The mushrooms should not be eaten raw. They can be cooked, grilled or stir-fried.
Recommended uses- King Oyster mushrooms are recommended in dishes rich in fluids which allow the mushrooms to absorb liquid and maintain good texture. They are great in soups and sauces, and cooked in chicken, meat and fish dishes. Before grilling, these mushrooms should be soaked in a marinade to allow them to absorb enough liquid.