How to Cook Shrimp of the Woods Mushrooms for Maximum Flavor

With their unique texture and seafood-like flavor, shrimp of the woods mushrooms are an exciting ingredient to cook with. When properly prepared, these meaty mushrooms can be transformed into show-stopping appetizers, mains, and sides.

In this detailed guide I’ll share tips on selecting cleaning, and storing shrimp of the woods mushrooms. You’ll also learn quick and easy cooking methods to bring out their absolute best flavor and texture. Let’s dive in!

Native to North America and Europe, shrimp of the woods mushrooms (also called hawk’s wing) have become increasingly popular in recent years. These golden-orange beauties grow in shelf-like clusters on trees and logs.

When raw, they have a mild, slightly seafood-like aroma. Their flavor really shines when cooked, developing notes of shrimp, crab, and lobster The mushrooms have a substantial meaty bite and pleasing chewy-crispy texture

With such unique characteristics, it’s no wonder shrimp of the woods mushrooms are so coveted by chefs and home cooks alike! Now let’s look at how to select and handle these gems.

Selecting Fresh, High-Quality Shrimp of the Woods

When buying shrimp of the woods mushrooms, look for specimens with the following qualities:

• Bright, vibrant orange color
• Firm, plump texture without bruising
• Moist surface without excessive drying
• No dark discoloration
• Pleasant seafood aroma

Avoid mushrooms that appear dried out, wilted, or have dark spots. Prime shrimp of the woods will feel quite sturdy and substantial in your hand. The vibrant color also denotes freshness.

Proper Cleaning and Storage

Like all mushrooms, thorough cleaning and proper storage are key to preserving freshness with shrimp of the woods. Here’s how:

• Clean gently – Use a soft brush or damp towel to clean off debris. Avoid soaking or washing which can cause moisture loss.

• Trim ends – Clip off any tough, woody ends with kitchen shears.

• Use quickly – Cook within 2-3 days of purchasing for best flavor and texture.

• Store in paper – Keep mushrooms in a paper (not plastic) bag in the refrigerator.

With proper handling, shrimp of the woods will retain their peak flavor, moisture and delightful “snap” when cooked. Now, let’s explore cooking methods!

Sauteing Shrimp of the Woods Mushrooms

One of the quickest and easiest ways to cook shrimp of the woods is by sauteing in a hot skillet with melted butter or oil. The high heat helps develop their flavor while imparting a crisp exterior texture and sealing in moisture.

To saute:

• Cut mushrooms into 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch slices. Go against the grain for shorter fibers.
• Heat 1-2 Tbsp oil or butter over medium-high heat.
• When oil shimmers, add mushrooms in a single layer.
• Saute 4-5 minutes per side until lightly browned.
• Season with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

That’s all it takes for delicious sauteed shrimp of the woods! You can serve them as a side dish or use them to top pasta, pizza and more.

Pan Roasting Shrimp of the Woods

For more concentrated flavor development, try pan roasting shrimp of the woods. Pan roasting involves cooking over lower heat which draws out moisture and deepens the flavor.

To pan roast:

• Cut or tear mushrooms into large 2-3 inch pieces.
• Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add mushrooms in a single layer with space between.
• Cook 8-12 minutes per side until deeply browned.
• Flip only once during cooking.
• Season with rosemary, thyme and garlic.

The slower pan roasting process results in even better flavor concentration and textural contrast between the crispy edges and ultra-tender interiors.

Grilling Shrimp of the Woods

The next time you fire up the grill, take advantage of the high heat to impart smoky charred flavor to shrimp of the woods. Grilling transforms their texture from chewy to crispy.

To grill:

• Toss mushrooms in olive oil and seasonings.
• Grill over direct high heat 2-4 minutes per side.
• Flip only once for grill marks.
• Optionally skewer smaller mushrooms for easier handling.
• Brush with glaze or sauce during last minute of grilling.

The smoky charred bits combined with the mushrooms’ inherent umami makes for incredible depth of flavor.

Baking Shrimp of the Woods

For easy oven-cooked results, baking is a great option. Baking provides even, all-around heat to thoroughly cook the mushrooms while retaining moisture.

To bake:

• Toss mushrooms in olive oil, salt and pepper.
• Spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake at 400°F 15-20 minutes, flipping once.
• Bake until browned and tender when pierced.
• Optionally top with panko breadcrumbs during last 5 minutes for a crispy crust.

From easy weeknight meals to holiday side dishes, baked shrimp of the woods never disappoint!

Sautéed Shrimp of the Woods Recipe

Now that you know how quick and easy it is to sauté shrimp of the woods mushrooms, here’s an excellent recipe to try:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp of the woods mushrooms, sliced 1⁄4 inch thick
• 3 Tbsp butter or olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1⁄4 cup white wine or lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Clean mushrooms and slice against the grain into 1⁄4 inch strips.
2. Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add mushrooms and cook 4-5 minutes until browned.
4. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Deglaze pan with white wine or lemon juice.
6. Cook 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until liquid is reduced.
7. Remove pan from heat. Toss in fresh parsley.
8. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

In just 10 minutes you can have a gourmet-quality side of sautéed shrimp of the woods mushrooms to pair with steak, chicken, fish and more. Enjoy!

Breaded Baked Shrimp of the Woods Appetizer

These crispy breaded mushroom bites make for a stellar appetizer with any dipping sauce:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp of the woods mushrooms
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1⁄2 cup flour
• 1 tsp each garlic powder, paprika, salt
• Oil for frying
• Ranch, marinara, or aioli for dipping

Method:

1. Clean mushrooms and cut into 1-2 inch pieces.
2. Set up breading station with flour, egg wash, and panko in separate bowls.
3. Dredge mushrooms in flour, then egg, then panko, pressing to adhere.
4. Fry in 350°F oil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
5. Drain on a paper towel lined plate.
6. Serve warm with desired dipping sauce.

These crispy morsels are sure to be a party favorite! The shrimp of the woods really shine here with their unique texture and flavor.

Tips for Cooking Shrimp of the Woods

• Saute and pan roast over medium to medium-high heat to avoid burning.

• Baste grilled or roasted mushrooms with oil to prevent drying out.

• Overcooking can make the texture rubbery, so watch carefully.

• If mushrooms exude liquid during cooking, simply cook until evaporated.

• Fresh parsley or cilantro make excellent herb pairings.

With proper preparation, shrimp of the woods offer a mild, seafood-like flavor and satisfying meaty texture perfect for both meatless and omnivorous dishes. Now that you’re armed with tips for selecting, cleaning, storing and cooking this unique mushroom, it’s time to indulge in shrimp of the woods’ irresistible savory flavor and snappy texture.