REF. HF-001
Lion's Mane
Hericium erinaceus
Cascading white spines. Seafood-sweet in a hot pan.
- Flavor
- Lump crab, sweet, buttery
- Difficulty
- Beginner
Identification
Globose fruiting body with long, cascading white spines. No cap or stem in the traditional sense — the entire mushroom is a mass of teeth.
Culinary uses
- Sear in butter until deeply golden — treat like scallops
- Tear into large chunks; do not slice thin
- Pairs with sherry, lemon, garlic, and cream
Growing information
Fruits at 60–70°F with 90–95% humidity. Prefers a small opening rather than a large cut. First flush 10–14 days after pinning.
Harvesting
Harvest when spines are 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, before spines yellow. Twist gently at the base.
Nutritional profile
Established
- Rich in dietary fiber and beta-glucans
- Notable levels of potassium and phosphorus
- Contains B-complex vitamins including thiamine and riboflavin
Emerging research
- Contains hericenones and erinacines, compounds currently under research for neurological effects
Emerging research is presented for educational context and does not constitute a health claim.