Last week we discussed the merits of the meatiest shiitake mushroom recipes we could find. This week we're focusing on something significantly more delicate, oyster mushrooms. Oyster mushrooms really have nothing to do with oysters, except that they are usually grey (although there are also golden, pink, purple and giant varieties), soft and flat.
Although these mushrooms are also included in exotic/wild mushroom medleys, they are some of the most commonly cultivated mushrooms in the world. Which means, really, you can feel great about eating a ton of them. As opposed to shiitakes, which impart an intensely meaty flavor and a sturdy texture, oyster mushrooms are delicate, tender and cook very quickly. This makes them a great option for quick meals, vibrant stir-frys and simple soups. When it comes to variety, usually the lighter the color of oyster mushroom, the more subtle the flavor. We pulled together some of our favorite oyster mushroom recipes below, so get ready to gobble up as many as you can.
