Oyster mushrooms, with their delicate texture and briny flavor, are a culinary delight. Often lauded for their meaty quality, they offer a fantastic alternative to seafood in vegetarian and vegan dishes. This recipe focuses on a simple yet elegant preparation: steaming the mushrooms to perfection, allowing their natural umami to shine through. We'll enhance their inherent deliciousness with a vibrant, homemade vegetarian fish sauce, adding a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. This technique preserves the mushrooms' delicate texture, resulting in a dish that's both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy cooking times; this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. Ready to experience the magic of perfectly steamed oyster mushrooms? Let's dive into the step-by-step process, guiding you through creating this incredible vegan dish.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- King oyster mushrooms: 2 large
- Ginger squash: 1, julienned
- Garlic
- Onions
- Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetarian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1.5 teaspoons
- White pepper: a little
- Vegetarian fish sauce: 2 teaspoons
- Cooking oil
- Oyster sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Chili sauce: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Marinade
- Cut the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces. You can substitute with shiitake, straw, or other mushrooms.
- Cut the squash into slices. Bottle gourd or watermelon buds can be used as substitutes.
- Crush the onion, garlic, and pepper (optional for vegetarians; can substitute with other spices).
- In a bowl, combine vegetarian fish sauce, sugar, vegetarian seasoning, turmeric powder, oyster sauce, and chili sauce. Mix well.
- Marinate the mushrooms and squash in the mixture for about 20 minutes.
Step 2. Prepare the Steamer and Arrange Ingredients
- Put about two teaspoons of cooking oil in the steamer pot. Add about 30 ml of water.
- Arrange a layer of dented tissue on the bottom of the steamer.
- Place the marinated mushrooms and squash in the steamer. Pour the remaining marinade over.
- Sprinkle shredded ginger on top.
Step 3. Steam the Mushrooms and Squash
- Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are cooked.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Turn off the heat and enjoy immediately!
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- This dish doesn’t need any dipping sauce. However, if you want extra flavor, you can add salt, chili, or lemon.
- The mushrooms and squash will release their own juices during steaming; you may not need to add extra water.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbs: 30-35g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of mushrooms instead of oyster mushrooms?
While oyster mushrooms are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can experiment with other mushrooms like king oyster or shiitake. Keep in mind the cooking time may need adjustment.
2. What can I substitute for the vegetarian fish sauce?
Soy sauce, tamari (gluten-free soy sauce), or a combination of seaweed flakes and nutritional yeast can provide a similar umami flavor profile.
3. How do I store leftover steamed oyster mushrooms?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're delicious cold or reheated gently.
This simple recipe showcases the incredible versatility and deliciousness of oyster mushrooms. The combination of steaming and the vibrant vegetarian fish sauce creates a truly unforgettable flavor experience. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying vegan dish as a side or a light main course!