Mushrooms have been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries, but they’re having a real moment here in Australia lately. With so many varieties – each with unique textures and tastes – mushrooms are incredibly versatile, perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of earthy depth to their meals. From brekkie to dinner, here are five ways Aussies are making the most of mushrooms in the kitchen – as told to Tasty Tass, Tremendous Tony, and the Big Boss Danny at Alexanders Fruit Market Oakleigh!
1. Meat-Free Mains
Mushrooms are an absolute legend when it comes to meat-free dishes. With their rich, umami flavour and hearty texture, varieties like portobellos and Swiss browns can easily replace meat in burgers, tacos, or even as a steak alternative. Portobello mushroom burgers are especially popular; just marinate, grill, and pop them in a bun with your favourite toppings – they’re juicy, flavourful, and satisfyingly filling. Perfect for Meat-Free Mondays or any day you’re craving something plant-based!
2. Sautéed and Served on Toast
There’s nothing quite like a big brekkie with mushrooms on toast. Sautéed mushrooms – think button or cremini – cooked with a bit of butter, garlic, and a splash of white wine make a simple yet luxurious breakfast. Pile them high on some sourdough toast, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and you’ve got a café-style meal right at home. Add a poached egg on top for an extra treat, and you’re set to start the day like a champ.
3. Boosting Pasta Sauces
For those who love Italian food, mushrooms are the ultimate flavour enhancer in pasta sauces. Varieties like shiitake, porcini, and even dried mushrooms bring a depth of flavour that takes your bolognese or creamy pasta to the next level. Dried mushrooms, in particular, are brilliant – just soak them in hot water, and they release a rich, earthy essence you can add straight into the sauce. If you’re making a creamy sauce, throw in a mix of fresh mushrooms and sauté until golden – the flavour is simply magic.
4. Making Homemade Stock or Broth
Mushrooms are an often overlooked secret ingredient when it comes to homemade stocks and broths. Simply adding some dried mushrooms or mushroom trimmings to your veggie stock can make a world of difference, lending a deep umami note. Shiitakes work especially well here, adding a hearty depth that makes any soup or stew feel more nourishing. Keep some dried mushrooms on hand in your pantry, and you’ll always have an easy way to add richness to your cooking.
5. Infusing Flavour into Stir-Fries
In Asian-inspired dishes, mushrooms are a real winner. Varieties like enoki and oyster mushrooms are commonly used in stir-fries and hotpots, adding both texture and a lovely, subtle earthiness to the dish. Oyster mushrooms, in particular, soak up sauces beautifully, making them perfect for quick stir-fries with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Throw in some veggies, a bit of protein if you like, and a handful of oyster mushrooms for an easy, flavour-packed meal.
Final Tips for Mushroom Lovers
To get the most out of mushrooms, try different types and cooking methods – they all bring something unique to the table. Sautéing, roasting, or even grilling can bring out different flavours and textures, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Whether you’re going meat-free, adding flavour to sauces, or elevating breakfast, mushrooms are a real powerhouse in the kitchen.
So grab a punnet down at 12 Chester St., Oakleigh, get creative, and let mushrooms bring some earthy goodness to your Aussie cooking!