Lion’s Mane and Other Hericium Mushrooms – A Delicious Oddity
What You Should Know About Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
When you think of mushrooms, the image that pops into your mind is probably that of a large round cap on top of a skinny white stem. This image fits quite well for the majority of mushrooms out there, but many look much more unique. The Lion’s Mane mushroom is one such example. Lion’s Mane, also known as Bear’s Head, Monkey’s Head, Comb-Tooth Hedgehog, or simply Hericium (its scientific name)is a toothy mushroom that looks like something you’d expect to find while snorkeling at a coral reef.
This spiky looking snowball is actually a delicious Lion’s Mane mushroom!
Where Can I Find Lion’s Mane Mushrooms?
These autumn delicacies are, in my opinion, one of the easiest wild mushrooms to forage for. They begin to pop up around mid August and can be found all through the Fall months, with their peak in September. Most lion’s mane grow on hardwood trees however hericium abietis grow on conifers so don’t rule them out altogether in your search. Lion’s Mane is a saprophytic fungi which means that it feeds on dead organic matter such as trees. The best trees to look for Lion’s Mane mushrooms on are dead or dying Beech and Maple trees but really any hardwood is a good place to look.
How to Identify Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Lion’s Mane and other Hericium mushrooms are super easy to identify once you know what you’re doing. There is one simple rule that all hericiums follow. They always grow on trees due to their saprophytic nature. As for Lion’s Mane mushroom look-alikes all the really similar ones are also hericiums but people sometimes mistake coral fungi for hericiums. The easiest way to tell a Lion’s Mane from a coral fungi is the direction of the teeth. Lion’s Mane mushroom and other hericiums have downward facing teeth while Coral fungi teeth point upwards. Remember to never pick a mushroom unless you are 100% certain you have it identified properly. If you have any doubts try consulting a local expert!
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Medicinal Properties of Lion’s Mane
In addition to the great taste of Lion’s Mane and other hericiums, many people believe they have great medicinal properties. There hasn’t been any conclusive scientific evidence yet, but there are ongoing studies to investigate many people’s belief that Lion’s Mane mushrooms have some serious brain boosting powers. Lion’s Mane has been associated with healthier Nerve Growth Factor production, which helps to better maintain neurons in the brain. In addition, people also believe it helps treat anxiety, depression, and supports higher cognitive functions. If you’re experiencing any of these ailments we recommend you seek help from a medical professional though. Do not try to self-medicate with these wild mushrooms.
What are the Best Ways to Cook Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane mushrooms are often said to taste like seafood such as lobster and crab. The most common ways to cook these mushrooms is to saute them in either butter or olive oil. The two are interchangeable and really boils down to personal preference. My favorite is olive oil with a little salt and pepper. You can also batter and fry your mushrooms if you like; though I’ve never tried this method so let me know if it’s any good in the comments below!
Like most wild mushrooms, Lion’s Mane holds a lot of water and it helps to cook that water out. Start by cooking your mushrooms on low temperature until a lot of water has left the mushrooms and is sizzling in the pan. Either drain the water at this point and continue cooking or turn the heat on high and cook out the rest of the water. This will give you much crispier mushrooms.
If you’re Interested in learning more about these mushrooms and the other Hericium species I recommend this field guide to carry with you on your foraging expeditions!
