A Guide to Cooking With Functional Mushrooms

Functional mushrooms are breaking out of the tea cup and into the frying pan. These powerhouse fungi don’t have to be limited to coffee, teas, smoothies and soups (though those are great ways to enjoy them). But they’re also a bold, flavour-packed way to supercharge your everyday meals. Whether you're simmering a hearty stew, tossing a quick stir-fry, or crafting a creamy risotto, functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Tremella bring that earthy depth and serious wellness perks to any meal. 

 

Ready to elevate your cooking game? Dive into our easy guide and discover mouthwatering recipes that blend bold taste with nourishing benefits.

 

 

What Are Functional Mushrooms and How Can They Enhance Your Cooking?

 

In case you’re new to the world of mushrooms, functional mushrooms are different from your typical button or portobello varieties. These mushrooms – like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Reishi, and Cordyceps – are packed with medicinal and adaptogenic properties that have been celebrated in traditional wellness practices for centuries.

 

Unlike culinary mushrooms that are mainly used for their taste and texture, functional mushrooms are prized for their potential to boost energy, support immunity, improve focus, and even elevate your skin. Think of them as your everyday superfood that happens to be a little bit magical – offering not only a unique flavour to your meals but also health benefits to match. 

 

One of the best things about functional mushrooms is their versatility. They can easily be incorporated into both savoury and sweet dishes, enhancing the flavour while giving your body a wellness boost. These mushrooms blend well into recipes, adding depth, umami, and earthy richness.

 

 

Savoury Functional Mushroom Recipe Ideas

 

Who knew functional mushrooms could take your meals to the next level? From bold curries to energising grilled skewers, these recipes offer a delicious and healthy way to incorporate DIRTEA’s mushroom powders into your everyday cooking. 

 

Whether you’re looking for a brain boost, stress relief, or an energy pick-me-up, these dishes not only deliver dazzling flavours but also plenty of wellness benefits.

 

Lion’s Mane Coconut Curry

 

This rich, creamy coconut curry is bursting with flavour and goodness. The Lion’s Mane powder adds a subtle, savoury depth to the dish, complementing the creamy coconut milk beautifully. A perfect meal for those looking for comfort and a brain boost!

 

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp ginger (grated)
• 1 tsp DIRTEA Lion’s Mane powder
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 1 can (400g) chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander to garnish
• Rice or naan for serving

 

Instructions:

1. Heat coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in the Lion’s Mane powder, curry powder, turmeric, and cumin, letting them toast for 1 minute.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Add the chickpeas and spinach, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the spinach wilts.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and let the curry simmer gently for another 10 minutes.
5. Serve hot with rice or naan and garnish with fresh coriander.

 

Health Benefits: Lion’s Mane supports cognitive function, so while you’re enjoying the rich flavours, you’re also giving your brain a boost. 

 

 

Reishi-Infused Chicken Fajitas

 

Spicy, juicy, and full of zing, these chicken fajitas are given a twist with the calming, stress-reducing benefits of Reishi powder. The perfect balance of bold flavour and relaxation.

 

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (sliced into strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 1 red or green pepper (sliced)
• 1 tsp DIRTEA Reishi powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 lime (zested and juiced)
  Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving
• Fresh coriander, avocado, and sour cream for garnish

 

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with Reishi powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, lime zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until softened.
   Warm the tortillas and fill with the chicken mixture.
4. Garnish with fresh coriander, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream.
5. Health Benefits: Reishi is known for its ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation, so these fajitas aren’t just delicious – they’ll help you unwind.

 

 

Chaga Beef Stir-Fry

 

This stir-fry is packed with protein and veggies, making it a filling, nutritious meal. The Chaga powder adds a rich, earthy flavour to the beef, and its antioxidant properties help boost your immune system.

 

Ingredients:

• 2 beef sirloin steaks (sliced thinly against the grain)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp DIRTEA Chaga powder
• 1 red or green pepper (sliced)
• 1 broccoli head (cut into florets)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 inch piece of ginger (grated)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• Cooked noodles pr ride for serving

 

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, Chaga powder, honey, and rice vinegar. Add the beef and marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Heat a pan or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and broccoli, cooking for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender.
4. Serve the stir-fry hot over a bed of noodles or rice.
5. Health Benefits: Chaga’s antioxidant properties help boost your immune system, so this stir-fry is not only tasty but a great way to fight off oxidative stress.

 

Cordyceps-Infused Grilled Chicken Skewers

 

These grilled chicken skewers are marinated with Cordyceps powder, offering a natural energy boost before or after a workout. Full of smoky flavour and vibrant herbs, they’re the perfect BBQ dish.

 

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp DIRTEA Cordyceps powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
• Fresh mint for garnish

 

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, Cordyceps powder, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill or BBQ to medium-high heat.
3. Thread the chicken onto the skewers and grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
   Serve the skewers with a side of salad or grilled veggies, garnished with fresh mint.
4. Health Benefits: Cordyceps is renowned for its potential to boost energy levels and endurance, making these skewers the perfect meal for active days.

 

Tremella and Sweet Chili Prawn Tacos

 

These zesty, juicy prawn tacos are elevated with Tremella powder for skin-loving benefits, bringing together the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and crunch in every bite. Perfect for a fun dinner or to serve at your next gathering!

 

Ingredients:

• 12 large prawns (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tbsp DIRTEA Tremella powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground coriander
• 4-6 small corn tortillas
• Fresh slaw (shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro)
• Lime wedges for serving
• Fresh coriander for garnish

 

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the Tremella powder, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sweet chili sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Stir until the Tremella powder is dissolved and the marinade is well combined.
   Add the prawns to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes in the fridge.
   Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and cooked through.
2. While the prawns are cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes on each side.
3. To assemble, place a few prawns on each tortilla, then top with the fresh slaw and a squeeze of lime.
4. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.
5. Health Benefits: Tremella is known for its ability to promote hydration and skin health, while the prawns provide a lean protein boost. 

 

General Tips for Cooking with Functional Mushrooms

 

Including functional mushrooms into your cooking is a fantastic way to enhance your meals with both rich flavours and health benefits. Whether you're new to functional mushrooms or a seasoned mushroom enthusiast, these tips will help you make the most of their versatility and ensure you're getting the full range of benefits from these incredible fungi.

 

 

Start with Small Quantities

 

When cooking with functional mushrooms for the first time, start small. Begin by adding 1 teaspoon of powdered mushroom to your recipes and assess the flavour. You can always increase the quantity as you become more familiar with their taste and how they complement different dishes. Keep in mind that some mushrooms, like Chaga or Reishi, have a more earthy, robust flavour, while others like Lion’s Mane can be quite subtle.

 

Add Functional Mushroom Powders to Sauces, Soups, and Stews

 

One of the easiest ways to use functional mushrooms in cooking is by adding their powders to liquid-based dishes like sauces, soups, and stews. They dissolve seamlessly into broths or tomato-based sauces, and their flavours deepen as they simmer. Simply stir in a teaspoon or two of your chosen mushroom powder at the beginning or middle of the cooking process for maximum infusion.

 

Tip: For extra depth, add a small amount of mushroom powder to vegetable or chicken stock before making a soup or stew.

 

Enhance Your Breakfast

 

Start your day right by adding functional mushrooms to your breakfast. Whether you’re making scrambled eggs, an omelette, or avocado toast, you can easily incorporate powders such as Lion’s Mane for cognitive benefits or Tremella for skin hydration. Simply sprinkle the powder over the top of scrambled eggs or mix it into the batter of your pancakes or smoothies.

 

Use in Marinades

 

For an added flavour boost, you can incorporate mushroom powders into your marinades for meats, tofu, or veggies. The mushroom powder will help infuse your dish with its subtle, earthy notes and provide those extra health benefits. Combine your mushroom powder with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for a tasty marinade perfect for grilled chicken, beef, or tempeh.

 

Consistency is Key

 

The health benefits of functional mushrooms are cumulative, meaning they work best when consumed regularly over time. Try adding them to your meals consistently - whether it’s a daily smoothie, a sprinkle in your coffee, or a spoonful in your soup. Over time, the benefits such as improved focus, better digestion, or enhanced energy will start to show.

 

Tip: Create a habit by incorporating functional mushrooms into your morning routine, like stirring Cordyceps powder into your morning tea or coffee.

 

Consider the Cooking Temperature

 

While functional mushroom powders can generally tolerate heat, it’s best not to cook them at very high temperatures for extended periods, as this can cause some loss of nutrients. For dishes that require long cooking times (like stews or soups), add the mushroom powder about halfway through cooking, or sprinkle it on after the cooking process is finished.

 

Tip: For dishes that require longer cooking times, like slow-cooked stews or roasts, add your functional mushroom powder towards the middle or end of cooking to preserve its potency. 

 

 

Beyond Cooking 

 

DIRTEA’s functional mushroom powders aren’t just for cooking – they can be seamlessly added to your favourite drinks and baked goods too!

• Teas and lattes: Stir your chosen powder (like Lion’s Mane for focus or Reishi for relaxation) into hot water, milk, or plant-based alternatives for a nourishing, flavourful drink.
• Smoothies: Boost your daily smoothie with a scoop of Cordyceps for energy or Tremella for skin hydration, blending it with fruits and greens for an extra wellness kick.
• Baking: Incorporate functional mushrooms into your baking for a nutritional boost in cakes, cookies, and muffins. For recipe ideas, check out our Baking Guide.

 

Versatile and easy to use, DIRTEA mushroom powders are the perfect addition to any part of your day.

 

Elevate Your Cooking With DIRTEA Functional Mushrooms

 

Cooking with DIRTEA functional mushroom powders is not just about adding flavour — it’s about nourishing your body, mind, and spirit with the purest, most potent natural ingredients. Whether you're looking to boost your immunity, improve mental clarity, or support your overall wellness, DIRTEA’s functional mushrooms can easily be incorporated into your everyday meals to provide a nutritious punch.

 

Our high-quality mushroom powders are carefully crafted to maintain the full potency of each mushroom, allowing you to enjoy the natural benefits of Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Tremella, Chaga, and Cordyceps with every dish. 

 

Explore the full range of DIRTEA functional mushroom powders today. 

 

 

Cooking With Functional Mushrooms FAQs

 

How much mushroom powder should I use in my cooking?

 

For most dishes, start with 1 teaspoon of mushroom powder per serving and adjust to your taste. You can add more as needed, but it’s always best to start small, especially with potent mushrooms like Reishi or Chaga. If using in drinks, start with 1/2 teaspoon for a subtle effect. Gradually increase depending on your preferences and desired benefits.

 

Can I cook functional mushrooms at high heat?

 

While functional mushroom powders are stable at moderate heat, it’s best to avoid cooking them at extremely high temperatures for extended periods, as this can degrade some of their active compounds. Add the powders toward the end of cooking, such as in soups, stews, or stir-fries, to preserve their potency while still benefiting from their rich flavour.

 

Can I bake with functional mushroom powders?

 

Yes! You can incorporate DIRTEA mushroom powders into your baking. Add 1-2 teaspoons to your dry ingredients in recipes for muffins, cookies, cakes, or even bread. The powders blend well with spices and other superfoods, boosting the nutritional profile of your baked goods without overpowering the flavour. Check out our baking guide for recipes and tips on how to integrate them seamlessly into your favourite treats! 

 

Do you have any more cooking recipes?

 

Yes, absolutely! We have a variety of delicious recipes featuring DIRTEA's functional mushroom powders, from energising smoothies and teas to hearty savoury dishes and baked goods. Whether you’re looking for more meal ideas, snacks, or unique ways to incorporate functional mushrooms into your diet, we’ve got plenty of inspiration for you. Check out our recipes page for more ideas.