From Button to Shiitake: 7 Types of Mushrooms and How to Use Them in Cooking

Mushrooms are a highly adaptable ingredient used in cuisines around the world. They bring depth, aroma, and a satisfying texture to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Each variety has its own unique flavour profile and cooking style, making them easy to incorporate into everyday meals once you understand their characteristics.

Here’s a more detailed look at 7 popular types of mushrooms and how to cook them.

1. Button Mushrooms

Button mushrooms are small, white to light cream mushrooms with a very mild flavour and soft, slightly spongy texture. Because of their subtle taste, they act like a “flavour sponge” and absorb spices, sauces, and aromatics easily.

How to cook:

• Saute with garlic, onion, and black pepper for a quick side dish
• Add to creamy pasta sauces or white gravies
• Mix into omelettes, pizzas, and sandwiches
• Use in clear soups for light texture

They are best cooked on medium-high heat so they release moisture and develop a light golden colour.

2. Cremini Mushrooms

Cremini mushrooms are often called “baby bellas” and are a more mature version of button mushrooms. They have a firmer texture and a deeper, earthier flavour.

How to cook:

• Roast with olive oil, herbs, and salt for a caramelised taste
• Add to curries and gravies for richer flavour
• Use in pasta dishes like mushroom Alfredo or tomato-based sauces
• Stir-fry with vegetables for added depth

They hold their shape well during cooking, making them ideal for longer cooking dishes.

3. Portobello Mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms are large, open-capped mushrooms with a dense, meaty texture. Their flavour is strong and savoury, making them a favourite meat substitute in vegetarian cooking.

How to cook:

• Grill with olive oil, salt, and herbs for a smoky flavour
• Use as a burger patty replacement
• Stuff with spinach, cheese, or grains and bake
• Slice and sauté for wraps or pasta

Removing the gills before cooking can help reduce excess moisture and improve texture in some recipes.

4. Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms are known for their intense umami flavour and slightly chewy texture. They are widely used in Asian cuisine and are available fresh or dried.

How to cook:

• Add to soups, ramen, and broths for deep flavour
• Stir-fry with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger
• Saute and add to rice bowls or noodles
• Use dried shiitake (soaked in water) for stronger broth flavour

The stems are usually tough and often removed before cooking, especially in mature mushrooms.

5. Oyster Mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms have a delicate, fan-like shape and a mild, slightly sweet taste. Their texture becomes soft and silky when cooked, but they can also turn crisp when pan-fried properly.

How to cook:

• Saute quickly with butter, garlic, and herbs
• Pan-fry for crispy mushroom bites
• Add to creamy soups and sauces
• Use in stir-fries with vegetables or noodles

They cook very fast, so high heat and short cooking time help preserve texture.

6. Enoki Mushrooms

Enoki mushrooms are long, thin, and clustered together with small caps. They have a crunchy texture when lightly cooked and a very mild flavour.

How to cook:

• Add to hot pots and noodle soups
• Lightly steam or blanch for salads
• Stir into ramen just before serving
• Wrap in bacon or vegetables and grill for flavour contrast

They should be cooked briefly to avoid becoming too soft or mushy.

7. Maitake Mushrooms

Maitake mushrooms, also known as “hen of the woods,” grow in layered clusters. They have a rich earthy aroma and a slightly peppery taste, with a texture that becomes crisp at the edges when cooked well.

How to cook:

• Roast at high heat for crispy, caramelised edges
• Saute with butter and herbs for a simple side dish
• Add to risottos or grain bowls for earthy depth
• Use in soups for a strong mushroom flavour

They are best cooked until lightly browned to enhance their natural aroma.

Each mushroom variety brings something unique to the kitchen, some are mild and flexible, others bold and meaty. Learning how to handle each type makes everyday cooking more creative and flavourful. Whether you’re preparing quick meals or elaborate dishes, mushrooms can easily add depth, texture, and a satisfying umami boost to your plate.