Preparing Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms as a Chicken Substitute
Chicken of the Woods mushrooms make an excellent meat-free chicken substitute, offering a similar texture and savory flavor. Here’s how to prep them before using in your favorite recipes!
Ingredients:
Fresh Chicken of the Woods mushrooms
Water (enough to cover mushrooms in the pan)
Instructions:
Prep the Mushrooms: Cut the Chicken of the Woods mushrooms into 1/2-inch thick slices.
Simmer and Sauté: Place the sliced mushrooms in a 10-inch sauté pan and add enough water to just cover them. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, allowing the water to reduce as the mushrooms cook.
Cook Thoroughly: Sauté the mushrooms for at least 10 minutes. This step is especially important if you or those you're serving haven’t eaten them before, as it helps to break down any toughness and improve digestibility.
Drain and Use: Once the mushrooms are tender and the water has evaporated, drain any excess liquid. Now, they’re ready to use as a chicken substitute in your favorite recipes!
This method brings out the best texture in Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, ensuring they’re perfectly prepared for a variety of dishes.