Finding the perfect mushroom swap can turn a good dish into a great one.
Mushrooms add that umami punch we’re all after.
Sometimes, button mushrooms just aren’t in the cards. Good news is, we’ve got options.
Swapping in the right kind can be a game-changer for our dishes, from stroganoff to salads.
Not every mushroom works for every recipe, though.
Understanding the flavor and texture of our substitutes will make or break the meal.
That’s what we’re here for. Stick with us, and we’ll guide you through picking the perfect stand-in for your next culinary creation.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Button Mushrooms
Button mushrooms are a common variety known for their mild flavor and versatile use in various culinary dishes.
However, if you are looking for alternative options or cannot find button mushrooms, there are several substitutes available.
In this guide, we will compare the top 5 substitutes for button mushrooms, discussing their key characteristics and suggesting proper ratios to help you achieve similar flavors and textures in your recipes.
| Substitute | Key Characteristics | Proper Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Cremini Mushrooms | Similar taste profile to button mushrooms with a slightly deeper, earthier flavor; have a firmer texture | Use an equal amount of cremini mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms |
| Portobello Mushrooms | Large, mature version of cremini mushrooms with a rich, meaty flavor; have a dense and hearty texture | Use an equal amount of portobello mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms |
| Shiitake Mushrooms | Earthy and savory flavor with a meaty texture; can add depth and umami to dishes | Use an equal amount of shiitake mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms |
| Oyster Mushrooms | Mild and delicate flavor with a slightly sweet and briny taste; have a tender and velvety texture | Use an equal amount of oyster mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms |
| White Mushrooms | Similar taste profile to button mushrooms with a mild flavor; have a delicate texture that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors | Use an equal amount of white mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms |
Now let’s dive into each substitute in more detail:
1 – Cremini Mushrooms
Cremini mushrooms, also known as “Baby Bellas,” are a delicious substitute for button mushrooms.
Creminis have a similar flavor to button mushrooms and can be eaten raw or cooked.
These mushrooms grow in clusters and have firm white gills that run down the mushroom’s stem.
Their stems are thicker than those of regular buttons.
Cremini mushrooms are native to North America and Europe.
They were discovered in Italy but were given “Crimini” in honor of their cultivation around Cremona.
These mushrooms usually have a dark chestnut brown color on the outside and pure white flesh on the inside.
- Key Characteristics: Cremini mushrooms have a similar taste profile to button mushrooms but with a slightly deeper, earthier flavor. They have a firmer texture that holds up well in various cooking methods.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of cremini mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements and desired flavor intensity.
2 – Portobello Mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms are a great substitute for button mushrooms.
They have a dark brown or black color on the outside, with pure white flesh inside.
These mushrooms are quite large.
Most portobellos are four to six inches in diameter, with an open cap that exposes the gills underneath.
Portobello mushrooms are a cultivated variety of Agaricus bisporus.
Portobello mushrooms are native to North America, Europe, and Asia.
They may be roasted or grilled for extra flavor, giving them a crispy texture.
- Key Characteristics: Portobello mushrooms are larger and more mature versions of cremini mushrooms. They have a rich, meaty flavor and a dense, hearty texture, making them an excellent substitute for button mushrooms in dishes like grilled or stuffed mushrooms.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of portobello mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements and desired flavor intensity.
3 – Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms have a very similar flavor to button mushrooms.
In addition, they may be eaten raw or cooked.
Their flavor and aroma resemble a combination of chestnuts and cinnamon.
In addition, shiitakes have been described as being “meaty” in texture.
The shiitake mushroom is especially popular in East Asia.
This particular mushroom has been enjoyed for over 3000 years.
The specific type of wood they are grown on impacts the flavor and color of the mushrooms.
Shiitakes may also be found dried, in which case they must be reconstituted in boiling water for 20 minutes before using.
- Key Characteristics: Shiitake mushrooms have an earthy and savory flavor with a meaty texture. They can add depth and umami to dishes, making them a versatile substitute for button mushrooms in stir-fries, soups, and other savory dishes.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of shiitake mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements and desired flavor intensity.
4 – Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms are a great substitute for button mushrooms.
They have a wonderful texture and make a great addition to soups and stir fry dishes, especially when paired with tofu.
These mushrooms grow in clusters and tend to be long and thin.
Oyster mushrooms range in color from pale to dark beige, yellowish-white, or grayish-blue.
The flavor of oyster mushrooms has been compared to that of abalone, lobster, chicken, and even beef.
Oyster mushrooms originated in Asia but are popular worldwide because they grow well in temperate climates.
- Key Characteristics: Oyster mushrooms have a mild and delicate flavor with a slightly sweet and briny taste. They have a tender and velvety texture, making them suitable for substituting button mushrooms in sautéed dishes, omelets, or pasta sauces.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of oyster mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements and desired flavor intensity.
5 – White Mushrooms
White mushrooms are very similar to button mushrooms.
They may be eaten raw or cooked and are popular in stir fry dishes.
These mushrooms have a firm white flesh that is great for slicing into salads or adding pasta dishes.
White mushrooms also pair nicely with tofu.
The mushrooms grow in clusters and typically have closed caps.
These mushrooms tend to grow well in cooler climates, like Canada, Northern Europe, Alaska, and Northern China.
White mushrooms are closely related to button mushrooms.
Due to their similar properties, these two mushrooms can be substituted for one another without compromising flavor or texture.
- Key Characteristics: White mushrooms have a similar taste profile to button mushrooms with a mild flavor. They have a delicate texture that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, making them a convenient substitute in a variety of recipes.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of white mushrooms as a substitute for button mushrooms. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements and desired flavor intensity.
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