Introduction to Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane mushrooms, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, are aptly named
for their resemblance to the majestic mane of a lion. With their cascading spines and
creamy white colour, these fungi are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Native to
North America, Europe, and Asia, Lion’s Mane mushrooms have a long history of
culinary and medicinal use, revered for their potential to support brain health and
cognitive function.

Health Benefits

In addition to their culinary prowess, Lion’s Mane mushrooms are prized for their
potential health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, these fungi have
been linked to improved cognitive function, reduced inflammation, and enhanced
immune support. Incorporating Lion’s Mane mushrooms into your diet may contribute
to overall well-being and vitality.

Why Lion’s Mane is Good for Cooking

Aside from their striking appearance, Lion’s Mane mushrooms boast a mild, seafood-
like flavour and a tender, meaty texture—making them a versatile ingredient in a variety
of dishes. From stir-fries to soups, their ability to absorb flavours and complement other
ingredients makes them a favourite among chefs and food enthusiasts alike.

Cleaning and Preparing Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

To clean Lion’s Mane mushrooms, gently brush away any dirt or debris with a soft brush
or cloth. Avoid washing them unless necessary, as they can absorb excess moisture
and become soggy. Trim any tough or discoloured parts before slicing or cooking.

Popular Ways to Cook Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

1. Sautéed

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil or butter. Slice the Lion’s
Mane mushrooms into thick slices and sauté until golden brown and crispy on the
edges. Season with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs or spices.

2. Grilled

Brush the Lion’s Mane mushrooms with olive oil or marinade for added flavour. Grill
them over medium-high heat until tender and lightly charred, then slice and serve.

3. Stir-fried

Slice the Lion’s Mane mushrooms and stir-fry them with mixed vegetables, garlic, ginger,
and your choice of sauce (e.g., soy sauce, teriyaki sauce).

4. Baked or Roasted

Coat the Lion’s Mane mushrooms in olive oil and your favourite seasonings, then roast
them in the oven until golden brown and crispy.

5. Tempura

Dip the Lion’s Mane mushroom slices in tempura batter and deep-fry them until golden and crispy.

6. Stuffed

Remove the stems from the Lion's Mane mushrooms and fill the caps with a mixture of
breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and other savoury ingredients. Bake them until the filling is
golden and bubbling.

7. Soup or Broth

Add sliced or shredded Lion’s Mane mushrooms to soups, stews, or broths for a hearty
and flavourful addition. Their meaty texture and mild flavour pair well with a variety of
soup bases and ingredients.

These are just a few of the many ways to enjoy the culinary versatility of Lion’s Mane
mushrooms. Whether you’re sautéing, grilling, or stuffing them, these mushrooms add a unique and delicious touch to your meals.

Recipes Using Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

1. Lion’s Mane Mushroom Stir-Fry

– Ingredients: Lion’s Mane mushrooms, mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli,
carrots), garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil.
– Method: Slice the Lion’s Mane mushrooms and prepare the vegetables. Heat oil in a
wok or skillet, add minced garlic and ginger, then stir-fry the mushrooms and vegetables
until tender. Season with soy sauce and sesame oil, then serve over rice or noodles.

2. Stuffed Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

– Ingredients: Lion’s Mane mushrooms, cream cheese, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan
cheese, fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, marjoram, basil), olive oil.
– Method: Clean and trim the Lion’s Mane mushrooms, then mix cream cheese, garlic,
breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped herbs in a bowl. Stuff the mushroom
caps with the mixture, drizzle with olive oil and bake until golden brown and bubbling.

Cooking with Lion’s Mane mushrooms opens up a world of culinary
possibilities, from simple sautés to gourmet stuffed creations. With their delicate
flavour, meaty texture, and potential health benefits, Lion’s Mane mushrooms are sure
to become a staple in your kitchen. Read more here about herbs that are perfectly matched to cooking with mushrooms.

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Mushrooms bring a unique depth of flavour to our culinary creations. Whether you are
foraging for wild mushrooms or stocking up on your favourite varieties from the shop, preserving
them is a fantastic way to prolong their freshness and intensify their savoury essence. In this
post we will explore four different methods to preserve mushrooms, providing you with a spectrum
of choices for preserving these flavourful fungi.

1. Use a Food Dehydrator

One of the most popular and efficient methods for drying mushrooms is using a food
dehydrator. This method removes moisture from the mushrooms at a controlled
temperature preserving their flavour and texture while inhibiting bacterial growth.
To dehydrate mushrooms:
– Clean your mushrooms thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris.
– Slice the mushrooms evenly to ensure uniform drying.
– Arrange the slices on the dehydrator trays, leaving space between each slice for proper
airflow.
– Set the dehydrator to a low temperature, typically around 130°F to 140°F (55°C to 60°C),
and let it work its magic. Depending on the humidity and thickness of the slices, drying can
take anywhere from a few hours to overnight.
– Once the mushrooms are crisp and brittle, transfer them to an airtight container for
storage.

2. In the Oven

You can still dry mushrooms using your oven if you don’t have a dehydrator. Here’s how:
– Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, typically around 140°F to 170°F (60°C to 75°C).
– Clean and slice the mushrooms as you would for the dehydrator method.
– Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced
apart for even drying.
– Place the baking sheet in the oven with the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.
– Depending on your oven and the thickness of the slices, drying can take several hours to
overnight.
– Once the mushrooms are completely dry and crisp, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.

3. Air Dry Naturally

Air drying is a traditional method that requires minimal equipment and is perfect for those
who prefer a hands-off approach. To air-dry mushrooms:

– Clean the mushrooms and slice them as desired and find a well-ventilated area with low humidity, such as a sunny windowsill.
– Arrange the mushroom slices on a clean, dry surface, such as a wire rack or a clean cloth.
– Allow the mushrooms to air dry naturally, turning them occasionally to ensure even drying.
– Depending on the weather conditions, air drying can take several days to a week.
– Once the mushrooms are dehydrated, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.

4. Using a Freeze Dryer

If you are looking for the ultimate preservation method, look no further than the freeze dryer.
Freeze drying involves freezing the mushrooms and then removing the ice crystals through sublimation, while preserving their original shape, texture, and flavour. While freeze drying requires specialised equipment and a larger initial financial investment, the results are well worth it. The freeze-drying method preserves a higher level of nutrients than any other method and when stored correctly, freeze-dried foods can be stored for up to 25 years.

To freeze dry mushrooms:
– Clean and slice the mushrooms as you would for other drying methods.
– Arrange the slices on the trays of the freeze dryer, making sure they are spaced apart for
even drying.
– Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific freeze-dryer model.
– Once the mushrooms are freeze-dried, transfer them to an airtight container or myler bag for storage.

How to Store Your Preserved Mushrooms

Now that you have successfully preserved your mushrooms, it’s time to store them properly to
maintain their freshness. Here are some tips:
– Transfer the dried mushrooms to clean, airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags.
– Store the containers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
– Check the mushrooms periodically for any signs of moisture or mould, and discard any that
appear compromised.
– Properly stored, dried mushrooms can last for several months to a year, ensuring you have
a flavourful supply on hand whenever inspiration strikes.

Each drying method offers a unique way to savour the essence of mushrooms
throughout the year. Whether you opt for the convenience of a dehydrator, the simplicity of
oven drying, the patience of air drying, or the precision of freeze drying, there’s no shortage
of ways to preserve the freshness of your mushrooms. Experiment with different methods to
find the ones that best suit your taste preferences and culinary needs. With time and
patience, you will have a stash of perfectly preserved mushrooms ready to enhance your
dishes with their rich, earthy flavour. If you enjoy cooking with mushrooms you might want to head over to our ‘6 Herbs to Cook with Mushrooms’ post. Happy preserving!

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Mushrooms are a strange and wonderful food. Though not typically thought of as a “health food,” mushrooms have many properties that make them ideal for boosting your wellbeing. From reducing inflammation to improving cognitive function, these fungi are worth incorporating into your diet. These 6 immune-boosting mushrooms have unique nutritional benefits and can support your wellbeing and overall general health as part of a balanced and varied diet.

Oyster Mushroom

Oyster mushrooms offer a range of health benefits. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including selenium, potassium, and vitamin D. Additionally, oyster mushrooms contain compounds that can boost the immune system and help fight inflammation. Oyster mushrooms are a great source of protein and fibre, and they contain all the essential amino acids your body needs to function properly. They are inexpensive and widely available, making them a tasty and nutritional powerhouse for all tastes.

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s mane mushrooms, also known as hou tou gu or yamabushitake, are large, white, shaggy mushrooms that resemble a Lion’s Mane as they grow. This distinctive mushroom supports focus, creativity & productivity. They can improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system. Additionally, Lions Mane mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Lion’s Mane mushrooms are rich in a compound called hericystin, which promotes nerve growth and regeneration.

Shiitake

Shiitake mushrooms have been used for centuries in Asia for their medicinal properties. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, and vitamin B6. Shiitake mushrooms also contain compounds that can boost the immune system and help fight inflammation. Some shiitake health benefits include supporting cardiovascular health, fighting cancer cells, improving energy levels and brain function, reducing inflammation, and supporting the immune system.

Reishi

Reishi mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Reishi mushrooms are typically used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat a wide variety of ailments, including fatigue, anxiety, and insomnia. They are adaptogenic, meaning they help the body to better cope with stress.

Chaga

Chaga mushrooms are one of the most potent immune system boosters available in the fungi kingdom. They contain a unique polysaccharide called beta-glucan, which stimulates the production of immune cells and increases their activity.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps are a medicinal mushroom that contains an abundance of bioactive compounds. Cordyceps are often used as a natural energy booster. They contain a compound called cordycepin, which increases ATP production in cells. This process captures chemical energy from the breakdown of food molecules and releases it to fuel other cellular processes in the body. Cordyceps mushrooms also help to increase oxygen uptake and improve blood circulation, both of which can enhance physical performance and overall health and wellbeing.

Mushrooms are a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet. They offer a wide range of health benefits and can be enjoyed in many different dishes. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, fight inflammation, or improve cognitive function, including these mushrooms as part of a healthy diet is a great way to enjoy these benefits.

If you enjoy cooking with mushrooms read our article, 6 Herbs to Cook With Mushrooms.

Do you use any of these 6 immune-boosting mushrooms as part of your diet? Let us know in the comments below.

Our self-paced online course, Learn to Grow Oyster Mushrooms is launching in September 2022. To be notified when the course is available please join the waiting list here. 

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Mushrooms have many health benefits. They have been for medicinal purposes for centuries. They contribute to immune system resilience, cardiovascular health, and effective digestion. Some mushrooms also have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Adding a variety of mushrooms to your diet is a great way to boost your health. Mushrooms are a rich source of antioxidants and polyphenols. These are compounds that have been shown to protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Here are 6 mushrooms that have unique nutritional benefits and can support your wellbeing and overall general health as part of a balanced and varied diet.

Oyster mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms offer a range of health benefits. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including selenium, potassium, and vitamin D. Additionally, oyster mushrooms contain compounds that can boost the immune system and help fight inflammation. Oyster mushrooms are a great source of protein and fibre, and they contain all the essential amino acids your body needs to function properly. They are inexpensive and widely available, making them a tasty and nutritional powerhouse for all tastes.

Oyster mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be added to many different dishes. They can be sautéed, grilled, roasted, or used in soups, stews, and stir-fries. When cooked, they have a savory, umami flavor that is similar to meat.

Lion’s mane

Lion’s mane mushrooms, also known as hou tou gu or yamabushitake, are large, white, shaggy mushrooms that resemble a lion’s mane as they grow. This distinctive mushroom is believed to support focus, creativity & productivity. It can help to improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system. Lion’s mane mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. They are rich in a compound called hericystin, which has been shown to promote nerve growth and regeneration.

Recent studies show that lion’s mane mushrooms can help improve cognitive function in older adults. They have also been shown to boost energy levels and reduce inflammation. Lion’s mane mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and polysaccharides, which are thought to promote a healthy immune system.

If you are looking for a natural way to improve your health, consider adding lion’s mane mushrooms to your diet.

Shiitake

Shiitake mushrooms have been used for centuries in Asia for their medicinal properties. They have a strong, savory flavour so are often used as an ingredient in soups and stir fries. Shiitake mushrooms provide vitamins and minerals, including potassium, and vitamin B6, and contain compounds that can boost the immune system and help fight inflammation. Additional shiitake health benefits are believed to support cardiovascular health, fight cancer cells, improve energy levels and brain function, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system. Read more about growing shiitake mushrooms on logs outdoors.

Reishi

Some of the most well-known health benefits of reishi mushrooms include their ability to boost the immune system, fight inflammation, improve sleep quality, and increase energy levels. Reishi mushrooms are also thought to have anti-cancer properties and to be helpful in managing stress and anxiety. They are adaptogenic which means they help the body to better cope with stress.

There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that these mushrooms can have a truly beneficial effect on our health.

Chaga

Chaga mushrooms are one of the most potent immune system boosters available in the fungi kingdom, that grow on the bark of birch trees. When it comes to boosting the immune system, chaga mushrooms are a powerhouse. They’re rich in beta-glucans, which are a type of soluble fibre that helps promote a healthy immune response. Chaga mushrooms are a good source of copper, which is necessary for the production of white blood cells and are the first line of defense against infection and disease.

In addition to boosting the immune system, chaga mushrooms also reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or disease. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, arthritis, and cancer. The antioxidants in chaga mushrooms help to reduce inflammation by scavenging harmful free radicals.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps are medicinal mushrooms that contain an abundance of bioactive compounds. These mushrooms are often used as a natural energy booster. They contain a compound called cordycepin, which has been shown to increase ATP production in cells. This process captures chemical energy obtained from the breakdown of food molecules and releases it to fuel other cellular processes in the body. Cordyceps contain properties that help to increase oxygen uptake and improve blood circulation, both of which can enhance physical performance and overall health and wellbeing.

If you have already experimented with some of these mushrooms and found them helpful, please let us know in the comments below!

And finally, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive monthly updates on all things mushroom-related. Join the community here.

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In this article, we’ll share everything you need to grow mushrooms on logs. Including what types of mushrooms you can grow, what type of logs to use, and a step-by-step guide.

Growing Mushrooms on Logs

There are lots of reasons to consider growing mushrooms on logs. It’s a cost-effective way to produce fresh and healthy mushrooms. You don’t need a lot of space. A few logs are enough to experiment with so that you can get started growing mushrooms on logs.

Most hardwood species are good for growing both shiitake and oyster mushrooms. This means that you can choose your logs based on what type of hardwood is available on your land or in your area locally.

Depending on the strain you want to grow it’s good to know which types of wood different strains prefer. Shiitake prefer oak and maple whereas oyster mushrooms grow well on birch, beech, elm, and poplars.

How Long Does it Take to Grow Mushrooms on Logs?

Most mushrooms will take a minimum of one year to grow on logs and it’s not unusual for it to take up to two years after inoculation for logs to produce their first harvest. This is a test of patience but once logs begin to fruit they should provide mushrooms for around 6 or 7 years so it’s worth the wait!

What Kind Of Logs To Use?

Logs are best if harvested during the autumn or winter months. This is because in these seasons trees go into a period of dormancy. During this time their sugar concentration increases and bark stays attached better than it would in spring or summer.

Larger diameter wood is difficult to carry as well as being bulky which makes moving logs a difficult task. Consider the size of logs required and strike a balance between larger logs for higher yields and ease of managing the logs over a period of many years once they begin to fruit.

Where to Store Logs Following Inoculation

Following inoculation, keep logs somewhere shady, humid, and warm. Maintaining good air circulation is important to prevent the occurrence of mould. You will need access to a water supply close to where you choose to store your logs after inoculation because you will need to rinse them to keep them moist throughout the incubation and fruiting stages. It is likely that you’ll need to do this 2 to 3 times per week depending on the climate and time of year.

Any location that is accessible and in a relatively shaded area is fine for storing mushroom logs following inoculation. This could include against a wall or building to create some shade, under shade netting, or under the canopy of trees so that direct sunlight is reduced.

When Should You Inoculate Logs?

The best time of year to inoculate logs is in Spring after the last frosts have passed. Most wild mushrooms fruit during the autumn months so it’s best to inoculate your logs early to mid springtime so that your mushrooms have a chance to colonise the logs before indigenous strains take hold and compete with the mycelium you have inoculated your logs with.

How Many Spawn Plugs Will I Need?

A 4-foot log typically requires about 35 to 50 plugs for full coverage. Drill holes approximately every 6 inches along the length of the log. Holes should be a few millimetres deeper than the length of the spawn plugs that you have selected. This allows room for the plugs to be sealed into the log.

When your first row of holes is complete, position the next row of holes staggered diagonally to the first row. Start the next row of holes about 2.5 inches (6 cm) away from your first row of holes, and stagger the row to create a triangle pattern.

Next, insert the plugs into the logs. Plug spawn dowels should be easy to get started in the hole. Gently tap them with a hammer to get them fully inserted.

Plugs should be below the surface of the bark and flush with the actual wood of the log. That way you’ll be able to seal the hole up with wax.

Sealing The Plugged Holes

It’s important to seal the plugged holes to protect the mycelium and allow it to colonise the log. Non-toxic wax such as cheese wax, candle wax, or beeswax is effective to seal the plugs into the log. Heat the wax following the manufacturer’s instructions and apply wax to the holes using a wax dauber, with a light coating to completely seal each plug.

Harvesting Mushrooms Grown on Logs

Most mushrooms grown on logs will fruit once or twice per year. The best time to harvest mushrooms is whilst they are still quite young, within the first couple of weeks. Beyond this time, and particularly after around 3 weeks, mushrooms will become brittle and inedible. The caps begin to deteriorate and become prone to being infested by parasites and pests.

Shiitake mushrooms should be harvested when their caps are only just starting to open and are around 5 cm in diameter. This usually only takes 2 to 7 days after they begin growing. Check regularly once fruiting begins as they can grow very quickly.

Oyster mushrooms should be harvested while there is still a bit of a downward curl in their shape before the rim of the cap becomes completely straight and stretched out.

If you’re interested in growing mushrooms outdoors in a mushroom bed, you can find our guide here.

Keep in touch by joining the Wild Wood Community here.

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If you want to try your hand at growing some fresh mushrooms but don’t like the idea of doing it indoors, choosing to grow mushrooms outdoors is a good alternative. This article explains how to build your own mushroom bed outdoors. Growing mushrooms on logs is also a great way to add some fungi-filled fun into your garden. If you want more information about how to grow mushrooms on logs, you can read our guide here.

How To Create An Outdoor Mushroom Bed

The King Stropharia mushroom is a great choice for growing mushrooms outdoors. We’ll discuss how they’re grown, and what kind of conditions are best with this type of mushroom. It’s a lovely mushroom that grows really well on wood chip beds, so it’s excellent for beginners.

Decide Where To Set Up Your Bed

Your mushrooms need a designated place to grow. A raised garden bed is ideal but you can improvise and find a shaded patch in your garden or allotment and set this up as your new mushroom bed. Once you’ve decided where to set up your bed the first step is to line it with cardboard. This helps the bed retain moisture and prevents weeds from invading your bed.

Layer Your Bed With Wood Chips and Mushroom Spawn

To start building your mushroom bed, you’ll need to create the first layer of wood chips on top of the cardboard. You can use any type or size of shreds for this; just make sure they are all-natural and untreated woods. On top of your first layer of wood chips, start creating alternating layers of mushroom spawn and wood chips. Put down about half of your mushroom spawn on top of your first layer of wood chips. Add more layers of wood chip and spawn until you have 3 or 4 layers sandwiched on top of each other. The spawn will use the wood chips as food to help it to grow and colonise the wood chip bed.

Cover The Mushroom Bed In Straw

Now that your wood chip and spawn layers are complete, it’s time to cover the whole bed in straw. The straw acts as a mulch so that your bed retains moisture and prevents the bed underneath from drying out. This helps to hold rainwater and draw more moisture into the bed and this can also reduce the amount of watering you need to do manually to keep your bed moist. The straw acts as an insulation barrier during the colder months too.

Maintaining The Mushroom Bed In The First Weeks

Make sure your mushroom bed has enough water by giving it ample soaking with fresh water. It’s also important not to let the straw become too dry as this is often one of the reasons that a new mushroom bed doesn’t thrive because it lost too much moisture. The bed needs to have enough moisture so the mycelium underneath the wood chips can grow, feed, and eventually produce mushrooms.

Maintaining Your Mushroom Bed

Now your mushroom bed is complete. From here on in, soak the bed with water at least once a week. Obviously, if it’s raining, as it often is here in the UK, you won’t need to do this as frequently. Just keep an eye on your bed and water as often as you feel is needed. After a couple of months, you can dig into the bed to see how things are looking under the mulch layer. At this stage, you could already expect to see significant signs of life. You should be able to see white filaments of life growing through the entire bed. That’s the mycelium of the spawn eating its way through the wood chips and straw layers of the bed. You should expect to see mushrooms starting to fruit after around 6 months.

Harvesting Your Mushrooms

Time to harvest the fruits of your labour! It’s key to harvest your mushrooms before the caps become too large and over-mature. This is when caps start to disintegrate quite rapidly and become much more prone to infestation from parasites and pests. If you get them at just the right time, these mushrooms are absolutely delicious! You can cook them up and enjoy them the same way you would many other types of cultivated mushrooms. Please do be sure to correctly identify that the mushrooms you’re harvesting are the right variety that you intended to grow. As you have less control over the growing conditions when growing outdoors it gives an opportunity for unexpected or rogue varieties to pop up in a mushroom bed. It’s unlikely to be anything harmful but it’s always better to be safe than sorry! If you’re growing King Stropharia mushrooms, they should have distinct red caps that are difficult to confuse with most other types of mushrooms that are commonly found in a wood chip mushroom bed so this helps to feel confident about what you are harvesting.

Annual Feeding

To keep a mushroom bed like this in good health requires little maintenance. You just need to feed it with a fresh new layer of wood chips every year to replenish the bed for the mycelium to thrive. Pour enough wood chips on to cover the entire bed, and then rake the bed so that the fresh wood chips are mixed in with the established mycelium. If you follow these steps you should continue to get mushrooms for years to come. Will you grow mushrooms outdoors? We’d love to hear your stories 🙂

Keep in touch by joining the Wild Wood Community here.

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