Learn all about
Lion's Mane Mushroom
What is the lion's mane?
Scientific Name: Hericium erinaceus
The Lion's Mane mushroom is so-called due to it's resemblance to a lion's mane: large, shaggy, and white. Belonging to the genus Hericium, which means hedgehog, this mushroom is identified by its long spines and its growth on the trunks of hardwood trees. Lion's Mane is considered a saprophytic mushroom, which means it feeds on dead trees. In Japan, lion's mane is known as yamabushitake, which literally means "mushroom which sleeps in the mountains." Native to North America, Europe, and Asia, this mushroom is used in both culinary and medicinal practices.
Cooking Lion's Mane
Lion's Mane has been described by chefs as rich, savory, and having a striation similar to a cooked chicken breast. Resemblance to meat notwithstanding, Lion's Mane is a popular meat alternative in many vegan recipes, and we think Lion's Mane mushrooms are delicious!
The Wicked Healthy Cookbook, a plant-based cookbook written by The Wicked Kitchen in the UK, has numerous recipes using Lion's Mane. Order some of our Lion's Mane and try out some of the recipes on their YouTube channel and be sure to let us know your results!
Lion's Mane mushroom is particularly popular grilled or sautéed. The meat-like texture makes Lion's Mane a great mushroom for grilling steaks, and since the mushroom is naturally moist many recipes can be made oil and butter-free!
