The Brain Booster: Lion's Mane Mushroom

The lion's mane mushroom, with its cascading waterfall appearance, isn't just a stunning sight in the forest – it's also gaining popularity for its potential health benefits. But with conflicting information swirling online, it's easy to get confused. Let's dive into the science and shed light on the wonders (and potential drawbacks) of the lion's mane mushroom.

1. What does lion's mane mushroom do for you?

Lion's mane holds promise for supporting cognitive function and overall brain health. Here are some of its potential benefits:

  • Enhanced Cognitive Performance: Studies suggest it might improve memory, focus, and learning ability.
  • Neuroprotective Properties: Lion's mane may support nerve growth and protect against nerve damage.
  • Reduced Anxiety and Depression: Some research indicates it could decrease symptoms of mild anxiety and depression.
  • Improved Gut Health: It may act as a prebiotic, promoting beneficial gut bacteria and digestive health.

2. What do i need to know in order to grow Lions Mane?

As the box says, simply locate a designated spot (away from direct sunlight and wind). Using a clean knife, carefully cut an "X" through the plastic there.

This creates a breathing hole for your mushrooms to sprout. After cutting the X, wait patiently (1-21 days). Once the mushroom is climatized to its new location, it'll begin the growing process.

IMPORTANT: Instead of directly spraying the box, we recommend using a humidifier nearby to maintain high relative humidity.

This keeps the environment perfect for Lion's Mane growth while avoiding the risk of bacterial contamination from misting the box directly. Watch in wonder as your fuzzy, white Lion's Mane mushrooms emerge, ready to be harvested and enjoyed!

    Lion's Mane is our most popular medicinal mushroom. Stock is limited o grab yours while they're available!

       

      How should I cook Lion's Mane Mushroom?

       

      My Favorite Lions Mane Recipe: BBQ Lion's Mane Mushroom Steaks

      Ingredients:

      • 3 large lion's mane mushrooms (about 1 lb/450 g total)
      • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (see Notes)
      • 2 tablespoons BBQ seasoning (your favorite blend)
      • 1 tablespoon Wicked Kitchen Sage & Onion seasoning (see Notes)
      • Salt and pepper, to taste
      • 3 tablespoons plant-based butter
      • 4 tablespoons BBQ sauce (Wicked Kitchen or your favorite brand)
      • Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or parsley)

      Instructions:

      1. Prepare the Mushrooms:

        • Preheat the oven to 400ºF/200ºC with convection or 420ºF if using a standard oven.
        • Trim the bottom of the lion's mane mushrooms so they can sit flat.

      2. Sear the Mushrooms:

        • Heat a large, heavy ovenproof skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat.
        • Once hot, add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the skillet.
        • Place the mushrooms in the skillet, stem-side down. Cook for 1-2 minutes to soften slightly.
        • Place a second heavy skillet on top of the mushrooms to press them down. Cook for another minute.

      3. Press and Sear:

        • Fold up a kitchen towel or use tongs to press down the center of the top skillet to flatten the mushrooms further. This helps them release water and sear.
        • As the mushrooms release water, use firmer pressure to press them down. Wipe off any accumulated water from the top skillet and add a little more oil to aid browning.
        • Continue pressing and searing until the mushrooms are browned and pressed to less than half their original thickness, about 5-6 minutes per side.

      4. Season and Finish in Oven:

        • Mix together the BBQ seasoning and Sage & Onion seasoning. Sprinkle some over the top side of the mushrooms, then season with salt and pepper.
        • Flip the mushrooms and cook for another 1-2 minutes, adding more oil if needed.
        • Season the top side, flip again, and cook until both sides are slightly charred and crispy.
        • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.

      5. Prepare the Pan Sauce:

        • Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the mushrooms to a cutting board.
        • Place the skillet back on medium heat and add plant-based butter. Stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
        • Stir in BBQ sauce until you have a medium-thick pan sauce.

      6. Serve:

        • Spoon some of the pan sauce onto plates.
        • Thinly slice the mushroom "steaks" and fan out the slices over the sauce.
        • Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
        • Serve immediately and enjoy!

      This recipe creates flavorful and hearty "steaks" using lion's mane mushrooms, perfect for a plant-based twist on a classic dish. Adjust seasoning and cooking times according to your preference for thickness and doneness. Enjoy your meal!

       

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