There can be various reasons for needing a substitute for mushrooms such as running out of them, not having access to them, or accommodating a food allergy. Whatever your reason, we’ve got you covered with our list of top 21 recommendations.
Following are recipe replacements for mushrooms that take texture into consideration and not flavor. Each of these items have a similar texture to mushrooms but will likely alter the flavor of the recipe.
Tofu
Tofu is a number one substitute for mushrooms because of its texture. Tofu is high in protein and many healthy nutrients.
Tempeh
Tempeh contains more proteinfiber, and vitamins than tofu. It’s a fermented food which means it’s easier to digest. The texture is like mushrooms which makes it a good substitute.
Zucchini
Fresh zucchini is another substitute for mushrooms that works well. It can be used choppeddiced, or grated. When grated, pat with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
Walnuts or Pecans
Raw or toasted walnuts or pecans can be used in place of mushrooms. They add that meaty texture.
Eggplant
Though eggplant has a similar texture to mushroomsit tends to emit a fair amount of liquid when it’s cooked. As a result, we recommend using about half the amount of eggplant for mushrooms that’s called for in a recipe.
Non-Mushroom Substitutes
Sometimes non-mushroom substitutes fill in well because of flavor that’s lacking. Following are our best recommendations for non-mushroom substitutes.
Onions
Onionsespecially caramelized onions or sauteed onions are a go to substitute for many dishes. They add a mild flavor that is often a delicious addition for dishes that call for mushrooms.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are a favorite replacement for mushrooms in pastaspizza, and even Chicken Marsala.
Squash, Pumpkin, Butternut
Some folks like to use squash such as chunks of pumpkin or butternut in place of mushrooms in various soups and stews. On many occasionsyou’ll want to cook the squash first before adding it to the dish.
Artichoke Hearts
Artichoke hearts have a mild flavor that works well in place of mushrooms for things like pizza and pasta. You can use fresh artichoke hearts or canned artichoke heartswhatever your preference.
Olives
There are many varieties of olives to choose from whether canned or fresh. And many color options among those varieties. Using olives adds a bit of an earthy or salty flavor to your recipe.
Chickpeas
There are various types of chickpeasand they can be used as a substitute for mushrooms when the flavor doesn’t need to be consistent of that of mushrooms. You can use canned or fresh as an alternative.
Lentils
Lentils are popular in soups and stews and make a good replacement for mushrooms where desired. Lentils come in a variety of color to add visual interest when used.
Leeks
Leeks have a similar flavor to onion and add a nice earthy and somewhat mildly sweet flavor. They work well in most any dish that calls for mushrooms.
Potatoes
If you’re looking for a nice mild flavorpotatoes might be a good option to replace your mushrooms. They work well in soups and stews, among other non-starchy dishes.
Carrots
Chopped carrotsshredded carrots, or sliced carrots add a mild flavor but have good color additions to any dish where the mushroom flavor doesn’t matter so much.
Garbanzo Beans
Fresh garbanzo beans or canned garbanzo beans are sometimes desirable substitutes for mushrooms.
Miso
Miso is considered a traditional Japanese seasoning and can be used in place of mushrooms. It’s made by fermenting soybeans with salt.
Mushrooms for Mushrooms
Substituting mushrooms for mushrooms is one of the best ways to capture their flavor if you have access to another form of mushrooms. If you don’t have fresh mushroomsthere are a couple of good solutions.
Dried Mushrooms
Dried mushrooms are usually sliced and work well because they typically have a long shelf life. They’re often found in the grocery store in the dried goods section. Just add some moisture to them and you’re good to go.
Canned Mushrooms
Canned mushrooms come in all shapes and sizes. They have a shelf life that’s guided by the best if used by date on the can. Just drain the liquid in the can and you’ll be ready to use them for your recipe.
Mushroom Substitutes for Flavor, Not Texture
Sometimes there are mushroom allergies or a dislike of the texture of mushroomsbut a similar flavor is desired in the substitute as a replacement. Here are two good solutions that fit in that category.
Umami Seasoning
Umami seasoning has a similar flavor to mushrooms and can sometimes include dried mushroomsdepending on the brand. If you’re looking for a substitute because of mushroom allergies, you’ll want to be sure to read the ingredients before selecting this one as your solution.
Beef Broth
We like to use beef broth often as a go to substitute for mushrooms. It has a good flavor that’s similar to mushrooms and it works well for those who have allergies to mushrooms. In some casesyour beef broth might need to be thickened using flour or cornstarch first, depending on your recipe.
Instructions
Choose the best substitute for mushrooms from our list above.
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