King Oyster mushrooms are the largest species in the Pleurotus (oyster) genus, as you might have assumed from the name. They may also be identified by the names of King Trumpet mushroom, French Horn mushroom, and Trumpet Royale, due to the mushrooms’ appearance resembling much of a “trumpet” shape. Their trumpet figure starts with a firm and thick white stem, often thicker in the middle, and a small tan cap on top. Unlike other gilled mushrooms, they grow individually, rather than in clusters. This species has been growing since ancient times, and is native to Mediterranean regions of Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and some parts of Asia. In nature, they grow every season, feeding off and growing from dead and decaying matter, including the roots of herbaceous plants.
Traditionally, this species has been used for gourmet purposes, and also serves as a dietary superfood. They are an excellent source of:
With about 5g per 100g of carbs, this mushroom is suitable for low-carb diets such as keto, or paleo. Not only are they a low-carb species but they’re also a high source of protein, making them the perfect addition to vegan and vegetarian dishes.
King Oysters are also rich in:
These all help to promote healthy metabolic processes of the body while providing highly potent antioxidants and chemicals which strengthen and boost the immune system. King Trumpets are also recognized by their low source of cholesterol and triglycerides, which contributes to reducing the effects of “bad” cholesterol. With all provided nutrients of this mushroom, the King Oyster is excellent with helping the body raise hemoglobin and improving blood levels in a way invaluable to the medical field. Now THAT is what we call a SUPERfood!
King Oysters aren’t just popular for their nutritional attributes! This mushroom has a delicious flavor to compliment a variety of dishes. Along with having a strong shelf life of up to 10 days, longer than the majority of other species, they are one of the most versatile mushrooms in the kitchen and are favored in many popular chef’s cuisines. With little to no aroma or flavor in raw form, King Oysters remain thick with a meaty texture when they are cooked, and their flavor is described as an "umami, savory taste with a seafood aroma."
The Wicked Healthy Cookbook, a plant-based cookbook written by The Wicked Kitchen in the UK, has numerous recipes using King Oysters. Order some of our King Oysters and try out some of the recipes on their YouTube channel and be sure to let us know your results!
For instance, this mushroom can be braised, broiled, grilled, sautéed, and stewed. It’s also the perfect companion to soups, stews, sauces, pastas, and vegetable dishes as a substitute for meats and seafood.
A few popular dishes used to cook the King’s with are vegetarian scallops, Asian stir fry's, pizza, and rice dishes. When preparing King Oysters, keep in mind their size is much thicker and larger than most. Allow this meaty mushroom to cook for longer, enabling it to nicely and fully brown.
The King Oysters meaty texture and umami taste especially reinforce the flavor and consistency desired for vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Here is a recipe using King Oysters for a creamy, vegan pasta. Try it out with some of our Fresh King Trumpets, and send in a picture to be featured on our Instagram!
We are taking off for a cruise from the 13th-24th. Our website shop will be closed until we get back.
You can still find our tinctures and jerky inside of Beehive Naturals Makers Market on 25th Street in Ogden for the holidays! We appreciate all of the support there during the time we are gone for the holidays.
We will have everything back online January 1st.
The Ogden Winters farmers market also starts in February! We hope everyone has an amazing holiday season, and we look forward to getting back with you! (: