Where to Find and Buy Delicious Lobster Mushrooms

Lobster mushrooms are a delicious and unique ingredient that can add lots of flavor to dishes But finding them can be tricky since they are not cultivated This article will breakdown everything you need to know about finding and buying lobster mushrooms so you can enjoy their seafood-like taste in your cooking,

What Are Lobster Mushrooms?

Lobster mushrooms get their name from their firm, meaty texture and reddish-orange color. But they are not actually mushrooms. Lobster mushrooms form when a parasite called Hypomyces lactifluorum infects certain wild mushroom species, especially Russula and Lactarius mushrooms.

The parasite covers the mushroom with a bright red or orange crust that looks and tastes similar to lobster shell. This is where it gets the name “lobster mushroom.” The parasite also firms up the mushroom’s flesh giving it a substantial meaty texture when cooked.

Lobster mushrooms have a mild, slightly sweet flavor with notes of shellfish or lobster Their texture becomes tender when cooked but still has a pleasant firmness

Lobster Mushroom Season and Locations

Lobster mushrooms grow wild mainly on the West Coast and in New England. They are in season from mid-summer through early fall when their host mushrooms are fruiting. The exact timing varies depending on location and weather patterns.

On the West Coast, lobster mushroom season runs from July through October. In New England, they appear slightly later from August to October. For the best chance of finding them, visit forested areas with hemlock, spruce, or fir trees during peak mushroom fruiting season for your region.

Purchasing Fresh Lobster Mushrooms

Because they only grow in the wild, fresh lobster mushrooms can be difficult to find commercially. Here are some of the best places to look:

• Farmers markets – Some mushroom foragers and collectors may sell fresh lobster mushrooms at farmers markets during peak season. Ask vendors if they expect to have any or can source them.

• Specialty grocery stores – A few specialty grocers like Whole Foods or regional chains may carry fresh lobster mushrooms when they are in season. Check the mushroom section.

• Foragers or mushroom buyers – If you live in lobster mushroom territory, foragers may sell them via online ads, at pop-up stands, or to local restaurants. Ask around.

• Order from a specialty distributor – A couple online specialty food purveyors ship fresh lobster mushrooms overnight when in season. Expect to pay a premium.

When buying fresh, look for mushrooms with minimal brown spots and a bright reddish-orange color. White lobster mushrooms are less common but taste similar. Store fresh lobster mushrooms in the fridge in a paper bag for up to 1 week.

Finding Dried Lobster Mushrooms

Dried lobster mushrooms are more widely available to purchase year-round. Their intensified umami flavor makes them perfect for simmering in sauces, soups, and more. Places to find dried lobster mushrooms include:

• Specialty grocers – Check the mushroom or dried foods section at health food markets and specialty grocers. Dried lobster mushrooms are shelf-stable so stores can stock them year-round.

• Online shops – Various online specialty food, foraged foods, and mushroom product retailers sell dried lobster mushrooms. Search “dried lobster mushrooms” to find many options.

• Amazon – You can conveniently purchase dried lobster mushroom products through Amazon. There are a number of brands to choose from.

• Farmer’s markets – Mushroom foragers who dry their harvest may sell dried lobster mushrooms at markets. Ask vendors if they have any available.

When purchasing dried, opt for mushrooms with a vibrant reddish-orange color. Soak in warm water for 20-30 minutes before using in cooking. Store dried lobster mushrooms in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Foraging for Wild Lobster Mushrooms

Foraging for wild lobster mushrooms yourself can be rewarding but challenging. Lobster mushrooms can be confused with toxic mushrooms, so proper identification is critical. Never eat a mushroom you cannot confidently identify.

To safely forage lobster mushrooms:

• Learn how to positively identify them from an expert mushroom forager or field guide. Note key ID characteristics.

• Obtain permission before foraging on private land. Only harvest in permitted public areas.

• Take an experienced mushroom hunter with you to verify identification.

• Carefully inspect each mushroom and only keep those you are 100% certain are lobster mushrooms.

• Follow sustainable harvesting techniques, like cutting instead of pulling mushrooms.

• Clean mushrooms thoroughly and refrigerate promptly after harvesting.

• Start with small quantities until you gain experience identifying.

Cooking with Lobster Mushrooms

Once you’ve located some lobster mushrooms, you can revel in their unique flavor. Briefly sauté fresh lobster mushrooms in olive oil or butter over high heat. Roast larger chunks at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.

For dried, soak then simmer in sauces, broths, or stir fries to draw out their concentrated umami flavors. Pair lobster mushrooms with creamy or buttery dishes to highlight their seafood essence. They also make a tasty meat substitute in vegetarian meals.

Some delicious ways to use lobster mushrooms include:

• Creamy pasta sauce – Sauté chopped lobster mushrooms in olive oil, shallots, and garlic. Toss with fettuccine and Parmesan.

• Hearty risotto – Cook lobster mushrooms into mushroom risotto along with shrimp or scallops.

• Savory bread pudding – Mix lobster mushrooms with wilted spinach and bake into a crusty, savory bread pudding.

• Vegetarian chowder – Simmer dried lobster mushrooms in vegetable broth with potatoes, corn, and non-dairy milk for a creamy chowder.

• Mushroom tacos – Sauté shredded lobster mushrooms with onions and chili powder. Pile into corn tortillas with avocado.

With their impressively rich flavor, lobster mushrooms can enhance plant-based seafood dishes, risottos, savory bakes, pasta sauce, and more. A little goes a long way, so start with small amounts when experimenting.

Hopefully this guide gives you all the tips you need to track down both fresh and dried lobster mushrooms. Keep an eye out during mushroom season and pounce when you spot them! With their unique taste of the sea, lobster mushrooms are a flavorful ingredient well worth seeking out.