Updated April 2024
The elegant Oyster Mushroom is a common wild, edible mushroom that was first cultivated in Germany as a subsistence measure during World War I and is now grown commercially around the world for food.
One of the easiest mushrooms to grow, oyster mushrooms have been used for thousands of years as a culinary and medicinal ingredient. They have a rich history in traditional Chinese medicine from as early as 3,000 years ago, particularly as a tonic for the immune system.
Oyster mushrooms are delicate, tender and cook very quickly. This makes them a great option for quick meals, vibrant stir-frys and simple soups.They have a unique fruity and liquorice-like aroma, and their shape and gills resemble an open oyster, likely giving rise to the name of the mushroom. Many also believe that the name is fitting due to a flavor resemblance to oysters; others don't. These thick-fleshed and short-gilled mushrooms have a shelf life that exceeds most species by several weeks.
Velvety soft in texture, it has a slightly sharp flavor that blends well with chicken and fish dishes. Don’t cook tree oysters for more than four minutes or they’ll be overdone.