If you love cooking, chances are you’ve already encountered the deliciousness of mushrooms in your culinary adventures!
From meaty portabellas to delicate shiitakes, there’s a world of mushroom varieties out there that can spice up your home-cooked dishes.
Whether you’re looking for an earthy flavor boost or just trying to get creative with dinner, learning more about different types of mushrooms is a great way to explore new flavors, and expand your recipe repertoire.
Plus, after the list of types of mushrooms, we’ll give you some of our favorite recipes that use them.
So let’s dive into this fun and flavorful kingdom – come discover all the ways mushrooms can add delectable depth to your homemade creations!
20 Common Types of Mushrooms
Button mushrooms:
These are the most common type of mushroom, and they are often used in cooking. They are white, round, and have a mild flavor.
They can be found in many grocery stores and are a great addition to soups, sauces, and salads. They are also very versatile and can be used for sautés, stir-fries, and other dishes. Whether you prefer them cooked or raw, mushrooms offer a delicious flavor to any dish. Enjoy!
Shiitake mushrooms:
Shitake mushrooms are native to Asia, and they have a meaty texture and a slightly bitter flavor. They are often used in stir-fries and soups. They can also be cooked in a variety of ways including steaming, sautéing, and roasting.
Shiitake mushrooms are packed with nutrients such as vitamins B, D, riboflavin and niacin. They are also high in dietary fiber, protein and minerals like zinc, selenium and iron.
Portobello mushrooms:
These mushrooms are the large, brown variety that are often used as a meat substitute. They have a deep, earthy flavor.
Portobellos can be eaten cooked or raw, but are best when cooked. They are great for adding flavor to dishes and for using as a side dish. When cooked, they can be added to salads, soups, sauces, and casseroles. They are great stuffed.
Cremini mushrooms:
Crimini mushrooms are a light brown color, and they have a slightly nutty flavor. They are often used in pasta dishes and sauces. Crimini mushrooms are also known as baby bella mushrooms.
They are rich in vitamins and minerals, and can help boost the immune system. They are low in calories and fat, making them an excellent choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Oysters mushrooms:
Oyster mushrooms are fan-shaped, and they have a mild, delicate flavor. They are often used in salads and stir-fries.
They also have many health benefits, including being rich in antioxidants and helping to support a healthy immune system. Oyster mushrooms can be found fresh or canned.
Maitake mushrooms:
Maitake mushrooms are also known as “hen of the woods,” and they have a feathery appearance. They have a woodsy, earthy flavor. They are great for adding flavor to dishes, as well as their nutritional benefits.
Maitake mushrooms can be cooked in many different ways, such as baking, sautéing, grilling, and stir-frying. They pair well with other ingredients like garlic and onions, making them a great addition to any dish.
Lion’s mane mushrooms:
Lion’s mane mushrooms are also known as “bearded tooth,” and they have a long, shaggy appearance.
They have a mild, nutty flavor., and are most commonly used in dishes such as stir-fries, soups, and salads.
Enoki mushrooms:
Enoki mushrooms are thin and white, and they have a delicate flavor. They are often used in stir-fries and salads. They can also be served raw in sashimi or as an appetizer.
Enoki mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals, like Vitamin C and Potassium. They are a good source of dietary fiber and protein, making them a great addition to any balanced diet.
Shimeji mushrooms:
Shimeji mushrooms are small and brown, and they have a nutty flavor. They are often used in soups and stews.
They are sometimes used as a topping for rice and noodles. Shimeji mushrooms are known for their health benefits and have been traditionally used in many Asian cultures for centuries.
Nameko mushrooms:
Nameko mushrooms are small and yellow, and they have a slimy texture, with a mild, sweet flavor.
Most commonly used in Japanese cooking, they can be cooked in soup, stir-fries, and tempura dishes. They also make a great addition to salads or as an accompaniment to rice.
Nameko have a unique flavor unlike any other mushroom, and they add a special touch to many dishes.
Truffles:
Truffels are rare and expensive, and they have a strong, earthy flavor. They are often used in sauces and desserts.
Mostly found in France, Italy, and other parts of Europe, they can also be found in North America and Australia. Truffles have been used since ancient times as a delicacy and are still widely enjoyed today.
Morels:
Morels are hollow and have a honeycomb pattern on their caps. They have a delicate, earthy flavor.
There are many different species of morels, and some have a stronger flavor than others. They can be used in many dishes, from risotto to omelettes, and are delicious when sautéed with butter.
Ceps:
Ceps are large brown mushrooms, with a meaty texture and a strong, earthy flavor. They are often used in Italian, French, and Spanish cooking.
Ceps can be cooked in a variety of ways, including sautéing, stir-frying, roasting and grilling. In Italy they are commonly added to risotto or tossed with pasta. In France they are often used in sauces or soups.
Hen of the woods:
Hen of the woods mushrooms are large and fan-shaped, and they have a woodsy, earthy flavor. They may have a meaty texture, but they don’t have much flavor.
Usually found in moist woodlands, they can grow quite large – up to fifteen inches in diameter! They’re great used in soups, stews, casseroles, pasta dishes, omelets and more.
Chicken of the woods:
Chicken of the woods mushrooms are also known as “sulphur shelf,” and they have a mild, chicken-like flavor.
They can be cooked in a variety of ways, including sautéed, grilled, fried and roasted. For maximum flavor, it’s important to cook them just until they begin to brown.
King oyster mushrooms:
King oyster mushrooms are large and white, and they have a meaty texture. They are often used as a meat substitute. They are popular in Asian and European dishes, and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
Try them grilled, sautéed, or roasted.
Reishi mushrooms:
Reishi mushrooms are also known as “lingzhi,” and they have a bitter flavor. They are often used in traditional Chinese medicine.
They can also be used in cooking, such as in soups or stir-fries.
Cordyceps mushrooms:
Cordyceps mushrooms are also known as “caterpillar fungus,” and they have a slightly sweet flavor. They are also popular in traditional Chinese medicine.
Cordyceps can be enjoyed dried or fresh in many dishes.
Mushroom Recipes
Now that you’ve explored the world of different types of mushrooms, here are some of our favorite dishes to use them in!
1. Mushroom Stroganoff
This easy Mushroom Stroganoff is a lighter and healthier take on your traditional beef stroganoff. It’s also super quick, and super tasty!
With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can have this meatless dinner on the table in under half an hour. Great weeknight dinner option!
2. Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Your meatless night never looked so fancy and tasty! These Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are what my dream looks like when I steer away from protein some days.
These big ol’ mushrooms are tender, fleshy goodness stuffed to the brim with everyone’s classic summer favorite… Caprese!!
3. Southern Braised Chicken with Mushrooms and Black Eyed Peas
Southern Braised Chicken is the newest addition to your comfort food repertoire. It’s hearty and full of cozy flavors. With just a few humble ingredients and a few minutes of hands on time, you’ll have a dish the whole family is going to love.
4. Easy Steak and Mushroom Flatbread
This easy steak Gorgonzola flatbread is a wonderful light dinner that’s packed with unique flavors and ingredients. It has steak, Gorgonzola cheese, arugula and mushrooms. It’s a great meal for a light dinner, or even just a snack.
5. Gorgonzola Portobello Steak Skillet
This Sausage and Mushroom Frittata is savory, adaptable to whatever you have on hand, great for a weekend breakfast. It’s easy, healthy and full of flavor.
6. Pork Pinwheels
Stuffed and roasted pork loin with spinach and mushrooms… with plenty of feta cheese. How can it not turn into one of the most gourmet, sophisticated and elegant looking thing on your platter?
7. Creamy Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
This Creamy Ground Sausage Pasta is a family favorite Italian pasta recipe!
Easy, cheesy, creamy pasta with savory mushrooms, tender penne noodles, and Italian sausage, all in a light yet rich creamy garlicky and parmesan sauce. YUM!
8. Mushroom, Spinach and Egg Breakfast Skillet
If your breakfast table needs sprucing up, try this fresh and exciting breakfast skillet. It’s tasty, packed with nutrients and it’s also low carb.
9. Creamy Lemon Chicken and Mushroom Soup
Creamy Lemon Chicken and Mushroom Soup is going to win your hearts… BIG time! Some magic happens with just a little bit of lemon, a little bit of butter and little bit of cheese and cream. Not to forget tons of spinach.
10. Jägerschnitzel (Hunter’s cutlet with mushroom gravy)
Jägerschnitzel is crispy fried pork cutlets topped with one of the tastiest and creamiest mushroom gravies you can cook.
It is a very rustic and classic traditional dish all the way from Austria, though it is also a classic in Germany. Your otherwise oh-so-basic pork loin gets transformed after some beating into tender pork schnitzel.
11. Coq au Vin
Ooh la la! If you’ve never tried Coq au Vin, one bite is all it’s going to take for you to realize why it’s one of the most famous dishes out of France!
Chicken is braised into tender submission in an herb infused red wine gravy, along with veggies and aromatics for good measure.
12. Moo Shu Pork
Here’s a stir fry jam packed with flavors. Tender, thin pork tenderloin strips along with colorful cabbage and mushrooms, and my favorite egg element, omelette strips, in a sweet and savory sauce.
13. Salisbury Steak
If you’re craving classic comfort food, this easy Salisbury Steak recipe is the way to go! Perfectly seasoned ground beef patty smothered in mushroom gravy.
Can it get any better than that? How about putting it all on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes!
14. Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish, where chicken is braised to tender perfection in a well seasoned tomato based sauce.
It is a rustic dish with plenty of fresh herbs, veggies, and usually a good splash of wine. The next time those Italian cravings hit, make this restaurant quality dish in your own kitchen…
Mushrooms are a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet. They are a good source of fiber, protein, and antioxidants. They are also low in calories and fat.
If you are looking for a new and exciting way to add flavor to your meals, try using mushrooms. There are so many different types of mushrooms to choose from, so you are sure to find one that you love!
Welcome to GypsyPlate! I'm Alpana, former wordwide tour manager and professional caterer, now full time blogger. I love exploring cuisines from around the world, and my recipes have been featured on sites such as MSN, Parade, Brit + Co, CNET and AOL. You can explore my entire collection of sortable recipes in my Recipe Index or learn more about me here.
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