Did you know that Monterey Bay is the second-largest mushroom producer in the U.S. and third in the world? Pennsylvania leads U.S. production, pioneering mushroom farming techniques that even influenced China, now the global leader in shiitake production.
A World of Varieties
Mushrooms once considered exotic—like shiitakes, enoki, lion’s mane, oysters, cremini, chanterelles, and portobellos—are now local favorites. Find many of these varieties at the Aptos Farmers Market, where New Natives offers an excellent selection of organic mushrooms.
Mushroom Profiles Guide
White Button: Mild and tender when cooked, they blend seamlessly into stocks, soups, and delicate dishes. Pair with poultry, fish, and white wine.
Cremini: Meaty and rich, these mushrooms shine in hearty pasta, vegetable stocks, and braises. Their dense texture holds up well to roasting and red wine pairings.
Portobello: Bold and robust, these large caps are perfect for grilling or stuffing. Their stems add deep flavor to sauces, risottos, and soups
Chanterelles: Earthy and peppery with a hint of apricot, these golden mushrooms elevate creamy sauces, egg dishes, and game meats. Sauté in butter and pair with white wine or Champagne.
Oysters: Delicate and subtly briny, oyster mushrooms bring a velvety texture to stir-fries, soups, and pasta. Their mild flavor complements garlic, soy sauce, and light-bodied wines.
Shiitakes: Woodsy and umami-rich, shiitakes are a cornerstone of Asian cuisine, enhancing broths, stir-fries, and dumplings. Pair with ginger, sesame oil, and sake.
Lion’s Mane: Soft and slightly seafood-like, Lion’s Mane is a fantastic meat alternative, perfect for pan-searing or shredding into “crab” cakes. Pair with lemon, butter, and dry white wine.
Enoki: Crisp and mild, these delicate clusters add texture to hot pots, ramen, and salads. Enjoy raw or lightly cooked, pairing with soy, miso, and sake.
Wild or Cultivated?
While lion’s mane and shiitakes are now grown commercially, chantarelles and porcini remain primarily foraged finds, adding seasonal magic to your table.
Perfect Pairings
Portobellos complement grilled meats and hearty grains, while creminis enhance bold pasta dishes. For wine pairings, choose white for lighter sautés and red for hearty braises.
Nutrition Notes
Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, potassium, phosphorus, and copper. They provide protein, support immunity, and even contain anti-tumor compounds—all for just 25 calories per 3.5-ounce serving.
Storage Tips (from MontereyMushrooms.com):
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Refrigerate between 34°-38°F with 85-90% humidity.
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Keep mushrooms in original packaging until use; store opened ones in a paper bag.
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Don’t wash before storing. When ready to cook, wipe with a damp cloth or rinse briefly and drain well.
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Freeze sautéed mushrooms for up to a month.
There’s more to mushrooms than meets the eye—so why not explore new ways to enjoy the “fungus among us” in your next meal?
