Also known as hen-of-the-woods mushrooms, maitake mushrooms have clustered caps that resemble ruffled feathers. They have a tender texture and earthy, robust flavor perfect for sautéing or baking. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook maitake mushrooms in 2 different ways
1. How To Cook Maitake Mushrooms Sauteed
Ingredients
- 1 lb maitake mushrooms
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, diced (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prep maitake mushrooms by rinsing briefly under water and patting dry with a paper towel. Trim away any tough stem ends. Break or cut into bite-sized pieces.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
Add the minced garlic and shallot (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add maitake mushroom pieces in a single layer. Let sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to brown.
Sauté for 5-7 minutes total, stirring occasionally, until moisture has evaporated and mushrooms are lightly browned.
Sprinkle fresh thyme over mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook for another minute to allow flavors to blend. Mushrooms are done when lightly browned but still tender, not mushy.
Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve sauteed maitakes while hot and enjoy!
2. How To Bake Maitake Mushrooms
Ingredients
- 1 lb maitake mushrooms, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, toss the maitake mushrooms with the olive oil until coated. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper and toss again until combined.
Arrange the mushrooms in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast for 15-20 minutes, until the mushrooms are lightly browned and tender, stirring halfway through.
Remove from oven and serve immediately. Delicious served over rice, pasta, or greens.
With their unique clustered shape and woodsy flavor, maitake mushrooms make a tasty addition to all types of savory dishes. Follow these easy recipes to bring out their best qualities, then get creative serving them alongside your favorite mains or as a standalone side dish.
