Sweet & Smoky Oyster Mushroom Jerky (Easy Vegan Snack!)

The Ultimate Beginner-Friendly Recipe

If you're searching for a plant-based snack that’s packed with umami, naturally chewy, and incredibly satisfying, oyster mushroom jerky is about to become your new favorite recipe! Oyster mushrooms have a naturally fibrous texture that transforms beautifully into jerky—chewy, smoky, sweet, and absolutely irresistible.

Whether you’re a home cook in Prague or a professional chef experimenting with new menu ideas, this recipe is simple, affordable, and unbelievably flavorful.

Why Oyster Mushrooms Make Amazing Jerky

Oyster mushrooms are perfect for jerky because:

• Their fibers tear into natural “strips”

• They absorb marinades deeply

• They get a beautiful chewy bite when dehydrated

• They’re rich in umami—no need for artificial flavor enhancers

Plus, they’re one of the most sustainable, low-impact ingredients you can choose.

Ingredients

For 500 g of fresh oyster mushrooms:

Wet Marinade

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp liquid smoke (optional but recommended)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Dry Seasoning

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

How to Make It

1. Prep the Mushrooms

Gently tear the oyster mushrooms into long strips, keeping the fibers intact. This creates that iconic jerky texture.

2. Mix the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk all wet ingredients, then add the spices. Taste and adjust sweetness or heat to your liking.

3. Marinate (30–60 minutes)

Toss the mushroom strips in the marinade until fully coated. Let them sit to soak up all that flavor.

4. Dehydrate

Option A – Food Dehydrator:
Spread on trays and dry at 55–60°C for 3–4 hours.

Option B – Oven:
Bake on parchment at 90°C for 75–90 minutes.
Flip halfway for even texture.

5. Store

Keep in an airtight container up to 5 days—or freeze batches for longer.

Serving Ideas

• As a healthy beer snack

• Chopped into salads

• Added to grain bowls

• As a topping for ramen or creamy pasta

• Packed for hiking and travel

If you are interested in discovering Oyster mushrooms many health benefits.

Here is an article on how to dehydrate mushrooms.