Lion's Mane "Crab" Cakes - The Wellness Periodical

I was recently introduced to a type of mushroom called the Lion’s Mane Mushroom. These large white and shaggy mushrooms get their name because they resemble a lion’s mane as they grow. They have what people describe as a seafood like flavor and that is why they are perfect for making Lion’s Mane Crab Cakes. Not only will the crab like flavor please your taste buds, you’ll be happy to know they have many health benefits, especially with the brain, heart and gut. This recipe is can be made Vegan as well.

If going Vegan is something you would like to try, or tried in the past and failed, we recommend having a good plan in place.

Check out The 28 Day Vegan Challenge

A visit to Unkle Fungus Mushrooms

My introduction to these mushrooms happened while I was visiting a friend in order to learn more about his new mushroom growing business, “Unkle Fungus Mushrooms, LLC”. With his family, they preside on a homestead on the outskirts of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There, they are not only growing and cultivating variety’s of mushrooms, but also herbs, vegetables, and soon-to-be fresh eggs from their new chickens!

I had the chance to purchase a variety of mushrooms called Lions Mane, one that I have never seen or eaten before! Not knowing what exactly to do with it, my friend gave me this recipe for “crab cakes”. Although there is no sign of crab in this dish, I have to tell you the mushroom looks EXACTLY like fresh crab when cooked and boasts a taste that was so satisfying! Vegans, Vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike will love this recipe. Check it out!

Many compare the Lion’s Mane flavor to crab or lobster and that is why they are perfect for this recipe.

Lion's Mane "Crab" Cake Recipe

You Will Need:

1/2 lb. Lions Mane Mushroom
2 tbs. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tbs. Greek Yogurt or Mayo
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 Egg (Substitute a Flaxseed Egg to make Vegan)
2-3 tbs. chopped Parsley
Lime juice from 1/4 of lime
3-4 tbs. coconut oil or alternative oil (for cooking the cakes)
Salt & Pepper to Taste

Optional Add-in’s : Fresh Red Bell Pepper, Old Bay, Fresh Garlic, Cilantro, Chopped Onion

Preparation:

STEP 1 – Dice lion’s mane mushrooms into large pcs. Toss in olive oil & roast in oven @350 degrees for 30-40 mins. Turn halfway through. Mushrooms will shrink as they lose water.

STEP 2 – When Ready, put mushrooms in food processor and pulse 4-5 times until mixture is broken down.

STEP 3 – In separate bowl, mix the egg, yogurt, lime, chopped parsley, salt, pepper and any add-ins. Use whisk to evenly mix the wet ingredients and pour into the food processor. Add breadcrumbs and pulse mixture until just combined.

STEP 4 – Use ice cream scoop or tablespoon to measure equal portions and form into cake with your hand. Place on plate or cookie sheet once formed.

Step 5 – Heat oil in non-stick pan on medium heat and fry until golden brown on both sides

Step 6 – Finish with a touch of salt and enjoy! I added a drizzle of tartar sauce that I thinned with a little water and lime juice… perfect topping!