6 Types of Gourmet Mushrooms & the Best Ways to Cook Them

The Farms of Illinois partners with Lemay Mushroom Operation for a variety of gourmet mushrooms grown right here in Illinois. They grow several different types, including Wine Caps, Chestnut, Italian Oyster, Pink Oyster, Lion's Mane, and Golden Oyster mushrooms, each with their own unique textures and flavors. Lemay grows the mushrooms indoors using organic and regenerative practices to produce the highest quality and freshest gourmet mushrooms for to cook with.

If you’re interested in cooking with mushrooms but don’t know where to get started, we’re covering the distinct qualities of 6 types of gourmet mushrooms we grow and how to enjoy them in your cooking, plus the sustainable methods behind the mushroom farm.

Italian Oyster Mushrooms: Meaty and Mild

Italian Oyster mushrooms, also known as gray or blue oysters, are popular for their meaty texture and mild anise scent. These mushrooms are a great substitute for beef or chicken in plant-based dishes. They’re pretty versatile, and you can use Italian oysters in stir-fries, pasta dishes, or stews to add a hearty element without overwhelming other flavors.

Chestnut Mushrooms: Crunchy and Flavorful

Chestnut mushrooms are known for their distinct texture and crunchy bite. Their flavor is mild, with just a hint of nuttiness, which makes them a great addition to salads. Chestnut mushrooms also shine on pizzas, where their unique crunch adds some texture. They are a great way to elevate simple dishes, giving your meals a gourmet touch.

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms: A Seafood Substitute

Lion’s Mane mushrooms are a type of gourmet mushroom that can actually be an alternative to seafood. They are highly prized for their tender texture and mild sweetness, which can resemble crab, lobster, or scallops. You can sauté them with butter, garlic, and lemon to create a delicious dish reminiscent of seafood, or use them in vegan crab cakes. Their delicate, stringy texture also works well in soups and stir-fries.

Pink Oyster Mushrooms: Smoky and Nutty

Pink Oyster mushrooms stand out with their vibrant color and rich, umami flavor. When cooked, they develop a smokiness similar to bacon that makes them a great addition to savory dishes. Pink oysters also have a slightly nutty undertone, and they work well in scrambled eggs, stir-fries, or tacos. These mushrooms have roots in tropical regions like Mexico and Japan and bring an exotic flair to any meal.

Golden Oyster Mushrooms: Delicate and Aromatic

Golden Oyster mushrooms are known for their bright yellow color and delicate structure. Their flavor is mild but aromatic, making them an excellent choice for light dishes like salads, omelets, or vegetable sautés. Golden oysters can also be used to garnish soups or stir-fries, adding a pop of color with their subtle taste. They have a shorter shelf life, so we recommend using them soon after getting them for the best flavor and texture.

Wine Cap Mushrooms: Earthy and Versatile

Wine Cap mushrooms, also known as King Stropharia, offer a rich, earthy flavor that is similar to potatoes. Their firm texture holds up well during cooking, making them a perfect addition to hearty dishes. We recommend pairing Wine Caps with pasta or incorporating them into risottos or soups for an extra depth of flavor. These mushrooms add an umami boost and a satisfying bite.

Sustainable and Regenerative Mushroom Growing Practices

At The Farms of Illinois, our farmers are committed to regenerative agriculture. Regenerative farming focuses on working with nature, enhancing soil health, and reducing waste. While many associate regenerative agriculture with outdoor farming, the same principles apply to Lemay’s indoor mushroom production.

The mushrooms are grown in controlled environments that mimic natural conditions so we can cultivate mushrooms year-round without the use of synthetic chemicals. All of the products we use for farming are organic and non-GMO, ensuring that the food you enjoy is as clean and nutritious as possible. We work closely with every farm in our network to ensure that all products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability.

Purchasing Our Illinois Grown Mushrooms

We offer a diverse selection of different types of gourmet mushrooms grown with organic and regenerative practices. Whether you’re a chef looking for unique ingredients or a home cook wanting to experiment in the kitchen, our mushrooms bring both flavor and sustainability to the table. Our mushrooms represent the best of local Illinois agriculture, providing flavorful food that you can feel good about eating.