Oyster Mushrooms

Nutritional Food Guide

Oyster Mushroom Tips

Oyster mushrooms are best known for their velvety texture and mild flavor.

Mushroom Recipes

Healthy Recipes and Information On Foods

The oyster mushroom is one of nearly 40 edible species of the genus Pleurotus. Mushrooms in this genus have a large, ear-shaped, fluted cap. The oyster mushroom is highly esteemed for its tender flesh, velvety texture, and mild flavor.

Varieties

Oyster mushrooms can be white, cream, yellow, or reddish brown, with a whitish stalk.

Buying and storing tips

When buying fresh oyster mushrooms, choose mushrooms that are uniform in color, with smooth caps. Oyster mushrooms can be stored in the refrigerator in a paper bag, but should be eaten within three days of purchase as they perish quickly and also tend to take on the flavors of other foods.

Availability

Fresh oyster mushrooms are available year-round in gourmet grocery and Asian food stores.

Preparation, uses, and tips

Oyster mushrooms are best when cooked. Sauté or fry oyster mushrooms in butter or oil for up to 5 minutes, or cook them with a small amount of liquid in a covered pan for 10 to 15 minutes. After the mushrooms are cooked, add them to soups, sauces, or casseroles.

Nutritional Highlights

Oyster mushroom (raw, pieces), 1 cup (200g)
Calories: 17.5
Protein: 2.0g
Carbohydrate: 2.8g
Total Fat: 0.23g
Fiber: 0.84g
*Good source of: Niacin (2.8mg), Riboflavin (0.29mg), and Vitamin D (53 IU)

*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value. Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries. Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values and the recommended daily guidelines.

Health benefits and concerns

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

In one survey, researchers gathered information from nearly 400 people (half with MS) over three years. They found that consumption of vegetable protein, fruit juice, and foods rich in vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin, calcium, and potassium correlated with a decreased MS risk.

Health benefits and concerns for vegetables
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other vegetables. Read about health benefits and concerns for vegetables for a full description.