oyster mushroom

OYSTER MUSHROOMS

Pleurotus Ostreatus

Oyster mushrooms are medium to large with a cap averaging 5-25 centimeters in diameter and a very short or nonexistent stipe. The hats are broad and fan-shaped, ranging in color from dark gray, brown, tawny, pink to yellow, and have curled edges that become wavy and lobed as they mature. Under the cap are white gills and the flesh is white, fleshy and firm. Oyster mushrooms have a slightly chewy texture and are soft with a bittersweet aroma reminiscent of anise. When cooked, they have a mild and nutty, seafood-like flavor.

PREPARATION

Oyster mushroom is a common name for three different types of fungi, including Pleurotus ostreatus, Pleurotus pulmonarius, and Pleurotus populinus, all of which belong to the Pleurotaceae family. Oyster mushrooms get their name from an uncanny resemblance in appearance and taste to freshly shelled oysters. Oyster mushrooms grow on rotting wood, especially beech and aspen trees. Oyster mushrooms grow in stacked layers in a shelf-like formation and are found in many different temperate forests around the world. Oyster mushrooms are one of the most widely cultivated mushrooms in the world, along with shiitake and button mushrooms. Oyster mushrooms are very versatile in taste and fit in many different cuisines and culinary applications.

Oyster mushrooms contain vitamins B6 and D, fiber, potassium and folic acid. They also contain an antioxidant called ergothioneine, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Other names

Austernpilz (Duits)Pleurote (French)Pleurotus ostreatus (Latin)