Lion’s Mane Mushroom, the Next Superfood?
BY GREEN BUTCHERY | 11 October 2021
Lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium Erinaceus), also known as hou tou gu (translated as monkey head mushroom in Chinese) or yamabushitake (roughly translated as ‘those who sleep in the mountains ’in Japanese), are large (by fungi standards), white, shaggy mushrooms that resemble a lion’s mane. Hence, its name. While we are at it, they are also known as pom pom mushroom, bearded tooth mushroom, and the hedgehog mushroom. They look like kabuki brushes to us though.
If you love mushrooms like us at Green Butchery, you’d probably be pleased to know there’s more to this fungi than its numerous names.
They are used both for culinary and medicinal purposes. Its meat-like texture offers an umami flavor consumed raw or cooked. Usually sold dried, they are easily reconstituted by soaking in water and are a great meat replacement. Perfect for any rendang and curry recipes. More on that next time.
Steeped as tea, or extracted as health supplements, you will find that the range of benefits research suggests can be quite extensive. We shall list a few here:
- Good Antioxidant. Great for fighting those free radicals around us.
- Reduces Inflammation and oxidation. As a powerful antioxidant, it protects you against oxidative stress and some forms of diseases.
- Treats Anxiety and Depression thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Promotes Cognitive Health and stimulates the growth of new brain cells and repairs damaged neurons.
- Enhances the functioning of the Immune System.
- Improves digestive health and reduces ulcers by encouraging the growth of good bacteria in the gut.
- Low in calories. No explanation is required here.
- Meat-like texture.
OK. We included that last one for those who like a bit more texture in their food. Some say they taste like seafood. We say they are more like very tender, juicy chicken. Try it and let us know what you think.