Pleurotus spp., more commonly referred to as oyster mushrooms, are flavorful, nutritious, and highly prized as a medicinal food. So many fantastic options exist, and each has its own unique characteristics in terms of flavour, aroma, and texture.
North American pearl oysters are the most frequent of the about 202 edible species in the pleurotus family. Having a flavour that’s woodsy and nearly nutty, with a texture that’s a little soft and chewy. However, some oyster mushrooms, like the Pink oyster, have a little seafood-like flavour and aroma and pair particularly well with seafood.
In 1775, the Dutch naturalist Niklaus Joseph Freiherr Von Jacquin formally described and named this mushroom species Agaricus ostreatus. They were reclassified as Pleurotus by German mycologist Paul Kummer in 1871. A name given to this mushroom because of its shell-like appearance.
Around the 1940s, commercial cultivation of oyster mushrooms began for sale in grocery stores, restaurants, and even as a medicine.
Also Read: Is The Oyster Mushroom Edible
Oyster Mushroom Medicinal Properties
Although you may already know that oyster mushrooms are good for you because of their nutritional and cardiovascular benefits, you may not realise that they also help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and promote weight loss.
Protecting the heart and reducing inflammation are two of the many benefits provided by the beta-glucans, antioxidants, and ergothioneine amino acids. One of the few natural food sources of vitamin D, which aids in blood pressure regulation, is mushrooms. Vitamin D deficiency is common in those who live in colder areas, therefore this is helpful for them.
Mushrooms are one of the best foods for defending your immune system from both acute and chronic illnesses because they contain beta-glucans. In addition to being a delicious and healthy addition to any vegetarian or vegan cuisine, mushrooms may also be used as a substitute for meat in recipes that traditionally call for them. High in protein and nutrient density.
Did you know that the necessary daily iron consumption is 12 milligrammes, and that only one cup of oyster mushrooms provides 12 milligrammes? The amino acids, potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and riboflavin found in oyster mushrooms are also impressive.
Foraging for Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms are perennials that can be found in the wild at any time. Oyster mushrooms prefer to grow in clusters known as shelves on dead hardwood trees and logs. This includes species like beech, oak, sycamore, and others. Except for the King Oyster mushroom, that is. This one develops independently, producing solitary specimens with white, meaty stalks and tan heads. Wine caps, king trumpets, and the French horn are all names for these instruments. The King Oyster is a foreign species in the United States.
Growing Oyster Mushrooms
Temperatures between 30 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal for colonising and fruiting oyster mushrooms. The only exception is chilled blue oyster mushrooms. They flower and produce fruit best in colder climates, and a “frost shock” is required to initiate fruiting. Warmer temperatures bring fruiting to some species, including the flamingo and the pink oyster. The True Elm, for example, is thought to be able to colonise and bear fruit in a relatively broad temperature range.
Due to their rapid growth, adaptability to different substrates and growing conditions, and the fact that they can be cultivated indoors all year long, oyster mushrooms are among the simplest mushrooms to grow.
Also Read: Types Of Oyster Mushrooms