Lion's Mane Maple Garlic

Video credit : Turnip Todd (Web, Youtube)

At our specialty mushroom farm in Prague, we’re proud to grow and deliver fresh, organic Lion’s Mane mushrooms directly to local homes and restaurants. This rare and highly prized mushroom isn’t just a superfood—it’s also a gourmet ingredient that’s quickly becoming a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.

This maple garlic Lion’s Mane mushroom recipe offers everything food lovers crave: bold flavor, crisp edges, a tender interior, and just the right balance of sweet and savory. The meaty texture of fresh Lion’s Mane mushrooms, especially when grown locally, makes them the perfect stand-in for shrimp—or “skrimpz,” as this playful dish has been nicknamed.

Whether you're cooking for guests or elevating a weeknight dinner, this dish showcases just how versatile and satisfying Lion’s Mane can be.

Ingredients

• 300–350 g fresh Lion’s Mane mushrooms (torn into shrimp-sized pieces)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter (or plant-based alternative)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari

• Juice of ½ lemon

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

Gently clean the Lion’s Mane mushrooms with a damp cloth. Tear them into irregular, shrimp-like pieces. This gives them texture and helps the edges crisp when cooked. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

2. Sauté Until Golden

In a large pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and brown the other side. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Build the Glaze

Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the pan and stir until just fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add maple syrup and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Let it bubble and reduce slightly (1–2 minutes). Squeeze in the lemon juice.

4. Coat and Finish

Return the cooked mushrooms to the pan and toss to coat them evenly in the glaze. Let them caramelize gently for another minute. Turn off the heat.

5. Serve

Plate the glazed “skrimpz” and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives. Serve hot as a small plate, appetizer, or as a bold topping over rice, noodles, or crispy toast.

Notes for Home Cooks and Chefs

• Texture matters: Avoid overloading the pan—sauté in batches if needed to ensure crisp edges.

• Substitutions: Agave syrup can replace maple, or use chili oil for a spicier variation.

• Pairing ideas: Try with coconut rice, polenta, or inside tacos with a squeeze of lime.

Why Lion’s Mane Works So Well Here

This mushroom’s structure absorbs flavour beautifully while developing a crisp golden crust when pan-seared. The sweet-and-savory glaze complements its subtle, seafood-like flavor—making it ideal for plant-based diners and anyone looking to try something new.

If you can find fresh Lion’s Mane mushrooms grown locally (like in our farm : here), use them, freshness enhances both texture and flavour.

This Maple Garlic Lion’s Mane “Skrimpz” recipe is a showstopper: easy enough for a home kitchen, impressive enough for the restaurant pass. Serve it once, and it might just become your signature.

If you are interested in discovering their many health benefits : Lion's Mane Health Benefits

And we wanted to say a big thank you to Todd Anderson for this lovely video : https://found.us/creators/turnipvegan?code=turnipvegan