Sesame Cumin Lion’s Mane Skewers

These beautiful skewers will make any mushroom skeptic turn their heads. Chewy Lion’s Mane mushrooms are topped with crunchy sesame seeds and aromatic cumin seeds before pan-frying. Top with fresh cilantro and spicy chili oil for an incredible appetizer or entrée.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 (as an appetizer)

Ingredients

• 16 ounces RI Mushroom Co. Lion’s Mane mushrooms

• 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds

• 2 teaspoons black sesame seeds

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 tablespoon cumin powder

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 3 tablespoons water

• Wood or bamboo skewers

• 4 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil

• Chili oil, for topping (optional)

• Cilantro leaves, for serving (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare RI Mushroom Co. Lion’s Mane mushrooms by spot checking for any blemishes and cutting off any woody bottom stems. Use your hands to tear the mushrooms into larger than bite-sized chunks.

2. Fill a medium pot with water with and bring it to a boil. Add Lion’s Mane mushrooms and boil until slightly tender, about 3 minutes.

3. Drain the mushrooms using a colander and cool slightly. Once cooled, use your palms to gently squeeze any remaining liquid and transfer to a large bowl.

4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix white sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, cumin seeds, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. In another small bowl whisk together flour and water into a thin paste and set aside.

5. Rub mushrooms with the spice mix before adding the thin batter and use your hands to evenly coat the mushrooms.

6. Thread 4-6 pieces of spiced mushrooms onto wood or bamboo skewers. Repeat until all mushrooms are skewered, there should be 4-8 skewers total.

7. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add vegetable or canola oil. Carefully place a few skewers into the hot oil and cook until they form a brown crust, about 1-2 minutes. Flip skewers and cook until brown on all sides, about 3-5 minutes total. Repeat with remaining skewers.

8. Place cooked skewers on a serving plate and garnish with cilantro leaves and chili oil, if using. Enjoy while warm!

Chef’s Notes:

• You can prepare the skewers ahead of time and fry off before serving. Prepare up to step 6 and refrigerate until ready to cook.