How to Cook Lion’s Mane Mushrooms: 5 Easy Recipes

Lion's Mane mushrooms are fast becoming a favourite in kitchens across the UK. Known for their unique texture and mild flavour, these striking fungi are not only packed with potential health benefits but also incredibly versatile when it comes to cooking. Whether you’re preparing a meat-free meal or simply exploring new gourmet ingredients, these Lion’s Mane recipes are easy, delicious, and sure to impress.

Why you can trust us

At Merit Mushrooms, we grow and supply fresh Lion’s Mane mushrooms from our urban farm in Elstree. Grown on natural substrates and picked fresh to order, our Lion’s Mane arrives at your door ready to cook. If you’re wondering how to cook Lion’s Mane mushrooms, these five simple recipes are a great place to start.

Buy fresh Lion’s Mane

Tips for cooking Lion’s Mane 

Lion’s Mane mushrooms are best cooked from fresh. To get the best flavour and texture:

• Gently brush away any debris with a soft brush or paper towel. Avoid washing or soaking the mushroom, as it can absorb water and become soggy. There won’t be any debris present if you order Lion’s Mane through Merit Mushrooms due to the way they are grown.

• Tear the mushroom apart by hand rather than cutting with a knife. This helps preserve its natural texture and gives a more meaty result when cooked.

• Searing on a hot pan brings out the umami flavour and gives the edges a golden crisp.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to allow proper browning.

• Keep seasonings simple to let the flavour of the mushroom shine. A little salt, garlic, butter, or olive oil is often all you need.

Can Lion’s Mane be eaten raw?

Technically, yes, you can eat Lion’s Mane raw, although cooking is strongly recommended. Raw Lion’s Mane can have a slightly bitter taste and a spongy texture that doesn’t appeal to everyone. Cooking not only enhances the mushroom’s natural flavour, but it also helps break down its dense structure, making it easier to digest and enjoy. Light sautéing, roasting, or pan-frying brings out the signature umami richness that makes Lion’s Mane such a sought-after ingredient.

5 delicious Lion’s Mane Recipes

1. Pan-Seared Lion’s Mane "Scallops" 

This Lion's Mane recipe makes the most of the mushroom’s tender texture and golden-brown finish. It’s a fantastic way to showcase their natural umami and elegant appearance.

Ingredients:

• 1 large Lion’s Mane mushroom, sliced into thick rounds

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A squeeze of lemon juice

Method:

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the mushroom slices and sear for 3–5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon juice before serving. Perfect as a starter or as a topping for risotto.

2. Lion’s Mane Stir Fry with Garlic and Ginger 

If you’re looking for a quick Lion’s Mane recipe that packs a flavour punch, this one’s ideal. The bold flavours of garlic and ginger balance beautifully with the soft texture of the mushroom.

Ingredients:

• 200g Lion’s Mane mushrooms, torn into bite-sized chunks

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• Spring onions and sesame seeds to garnish

Method:

Heat sesame oil in a wok or frying pan. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 30 seconds, then add the mushrooms. Sauté on high heat for 5–7 minutes until golden. Add soy sauce, toss to coat, then garnish with spring onions and sesame seeds.

3. Crispy Lion’s Mane Bites with Dipping Sauce 

Looking for a meat-free snack? This Lion’s Mane recipe is great for sharing. These crispy bites are perfect for parties & grazing boards.

Ingredients:

• 200g Lion’s Mane mushrooms, torn into chunks

• 3 tbsp plain flour

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper

• 1 egg (or vegan alternative)

• Oil for frying

Method:

Mix flour with paprika, salt and pepper. Dip mushroom pieces into beaten egg, then coat in the flour mix. Shallow fry until crispy and golden. Serve with your favourite dipping sauce such as garlic mayo or sweet chilli.

4. Lion’s Mane "Pulled Mushroom" Tacos 

This recipe makes Lion’s Mane the star of the show in a street food classic. The shredded texture works perfectly as a plant-based filling for tacos.

Ingredients:

• 250g Lion’s Mane, shredded by hand

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt to taste

• Soft taco shells, slaw, and salsa to serve

Method:

Heat oil in a pan, add shredded mushrooms, and sauté until lightly browned. Add spices and continue cooking until crispy at the edges. Serve in warm tacos with crunchy slaw and salsa.

5. Creamy Lion’s Mane Mushroom Pasta 

Wondering how to cook a Lion’s Mane mushroom for a cosy dinner? This pasta dish is rich, creamy, and satisfying: a comforting favourite that brings out the mushroom’s best qualities.

Ingredients:

• 150g Lion’s Mane mushrooms, sliced or torn

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 100ml double cream (or dairy-free cream)

• Pasta of choice

• Fresh parsley and parmesan to finish

Method:

Cook pasta according to packet instructions. Meanwhile, sauté mushrooms in butter with garlic until golden. Add cream and stir to combine. Simmer for 2 minutes, then toss with the drained pasta. Top with parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan.

Lion’s Mane Recipes: A Fresh Ingredient Worth Exploring

With their elegant texture and subtle umami flavour, Lion’s Mane mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that works across many cuisines. Whether you’re new to cooking mushrooms or looking for fresh inspiration, these Lion’s Mane recipes will help you make the most of this extraordinary ingredient.

Looking for fresh Lion’s Mane mushrooms?

Order directly from Merit Mushrooms for UK-wide delivery and enjoy a true farm-to-kitchen experience.