Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb large king oyster mushrooms, wiped clean
- 2 tbsp vegan butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the mushrooms: Cut off the tough lower 1-1.5 inches of the mushroom stalk by gently squeezing to feel where it gets tougher. Slice the mushrooms into 1-1.5 inch thick medallions, keeping the caps intact.
- Score the mushroom slices: Using a paring knife, score the cut sides of the mushrooms in a checkered pattern about 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. This helps the seasoning absorb better and enhances flavor.
- Heat the pan and add butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of vegan butter in a large cast iron skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the mushrooms, first side: Add mushroom slices one by one, cut side down, ensuring they are not crowded and all have contact with the hot skillet. Sprinkle garlic powder and sea salt over them. Place a heavy lid or a second skillet on top to press them down and draw out liquid. Cook for 8 minutes on medium heat.
- Add garlic and flip: Remove the lid, add minced garlic to the mushroom liquid in the pan. Using tongs, carefully flip each mushroom. The cooked side should be golden and slightly crispy.
- Cook second side: Continue cooking the mushrooms for another 5-10 minutes on medium heat until tender and golden on both sides. Stir the garlic occasionally without burning it.
- Cook in batches if needed: If mushrooms don’t fit in the pan, repeat the process with remaining mushrooms.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and freshly cracked black pepper before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate cooled mushrooms in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Avoid freezing as texture will be compromised.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a pan with olive oil or vegetable broth or microwave until heated through.
- Cooking tip: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure proper searing and caramelization.
- Flavor enhancement: Add dulse seaweed, nori flakes, kelp flakes, miso paste, or soy sauce after flipping mushrooms to deepen the ocean-like umami flavor.
- Scoring mushrooms: Shallow cuts allow seasonings to penetrate deeply, enhancing taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
