Mushroom Tacos: Should You Add Them?

Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, including tacos. They are commonly used in southern Mexican cuisine, and their meatiness and umami flavour make them a popular substitute for meat in vegetarian and vegan dishes. Mushroom tacos can be made with different types of mushrooms, such as portobello, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms, and are often served with a variety of toppings and sides.

Types of mushrooms for tacos

Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be used in tacos to add a savoury, meaty flavour. While you can use any kind of mushroom, some varieties are particularly well-suited for tacos due to their texture, taste, and ability to hold up during cooking. Here are some of the best types of mushrooms to use in your next taco creation:

Portobello Mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms are a popular choice for tacos because of their meaty texture and rich umami flavour. They are often referred to as the "steak of mushrooms." Portobellos can be sliced into long, thin pieces or left whole before grilling. When grilling, there is no need to remove the gills, but if you are slicing them, it is recommended to scrape them off.

Cremini Mushrooms

Cremini mushrooms are a smaller version of portobello mushrooms, also known as baby bellas. They have a similar flavour and texture to portobellos, making them an excellent choice for tacos. Cremini mushrooms are often sold pre-sliced, which can save time during preparation.

Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms have a distinct, savoury flavour and a chewy texture that can enhance the taste and mouthfeel of tacos. They are commonly used in Asian cuisine but are also versatile enough to work well in Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos.

Penny Mushrooms

Penny mushrooms are another variety that can work well in tacos. They are smaller and more delicate, providing a subtle earthy flavour. Penny mushrooms are often used in combination with other types of mushrooms or ingredients to create a unique flavour profile.

Other Types

While the above mushrooms are some of the most commonly used in tacos, you can experiment with other varieties such as button mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, or even a mix of wild mushrooms to create your own unique flavour combinations. Remember, the beauty of tacos is customisation, so feel free to explore different types of mushrooms and toppings to find your perfect combination!

Preparing mushrooms for tacos

Firstly, select your mushrooms. Portobello mushrooms are a popular choice for tacos due to their "meatiness", but you can also use cremini mushrooms (a smaller version of portobellos), shiitake mushrooms, or a mix of different mushrooms.

Once you have chosen your mushrooms, use a damp paper towel to gently wipe off any dirt or debris. Then, use a spoon to scrape off the gills from the portobello mushrooms. If you are using smaller cremini mushrooms, this step is not necessary.

Next, slice the mushrooms into long, thin pieces or strips. You can also leave the portobellos whole and slice them into strips after grilling.

To cook the mushrooms, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are tender, deeply browned, and slightly crispy on the edges. This should take around 10 minutes. You can also grill portobello mushrooms over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes on each side and then slice them into strips.

After cooking the mushrooms, you can add your desired toppings and serve them in warm tortillas. Some popular toppings for mushroom tacos include avocado or guacamole, salsa, black beans, corn, shredded cabbage, lime juice, cilantro, and cheese.

You can also season the mushrooms with a variety of spices such as garlic powder, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, and chipotle chile powder to enhance the flavour.

With their meaty texture and savoury flavour, mushrooms are an excellent option for vegetarian or vegan tacos and can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit your taste preferences.

Vegan mushroom taco toppings

Vegan mushroom tacos are a delicious meatless alternative to traditional tacos. They are easy to make, healthy, and gluten-free. The mushrooms are known for their savory, umami flavor, and blending them gives them a beef-like texture. Here are some ideas for vegan toppings to go with your mushroom tacos:

Black Beans, Corn, and Avocado

For a hearty and flavorful taco, top your mushrooms with black beans, corn, and diced avocado. This combination provides a good source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, as well as a variety of textures. You can also add shredded purple cabbage for extra crunch and nutrition.

Salsa, Sour Cream, and Cilantro

For a more classic taco experience, top your mushrooms with salsa, vegan sour cream, and fresh cilantro. This combination adds moisture, creaminess, and a tangy flavor to your taco. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for extra tanginess and freshness.

Spinach and Onions

If you're looking for a more savory and hearty taco, try sautéed spinach and diced onions as toppings. This combination adds volume and nutrition to your taco while complementing the umami flavor of the mushrooms. You can also add some vegan cheese, such as plant-based cheese shreds or crumbles, for a creamy texture.

Pickled Onions and Vegan Sour Cream

For a unique flavor profile, top your mushrooms with quick-pickled onions, vegan sour cream, and fresh coriander (cilantro). The pickled onions add a tangy and crunchy element to the taco, while the sour cream provides creaminess. You can also add some cos lettuce for extra texture and freshness.

Bell Peppers, Guacamole, and Salsa

For a colorful and vibrant taco, top your mushrooms with sautéed bell peppers, guacamole (or avocado), and salsa. This combination provides a range of textures and flavors, from the crispness of the bell peppers to the creaminess of the guacamole and the spiciness of the salsa. You can also add some chopped nuts for extra crunch and nutrition.

With these toppings and your mushroom base, you can create delicious vegan mushroom tacos that are sure to impress and satisfy!

Cooking methods for mushroom tacos

Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many recipes, including tacos. Mushroom tacos are a great option for vegetarians and vegans, and they can be just as tasty as their meat-based counterparts. Here are some cooking methods and tips for making delicious mushroom tacos.

Choosing the right mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms are a popular choice for tacos due to their "'meatier" texture. Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, are another option, but they tend to get softer when cooked. If you want a mix of mushrooms, you can also use shiitake or shitake mushrooms.

Preparing the mushrooms

To prepare the mushrooms, start by wiping them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt or debris. Then, remove the stems and use a spoon to scrape off the gills. Slice the mushrooms into long, thin pieces. If you are grilling the mushrooms, you can leave them whole and slice them into strips after grilling.

Cooking the mushrooms

There are a few different ways to cook the mushrooms for tacos. One method is to sauté them in a skillet with oil over medium-high heat until they are tender, deeply browned, and slightly crispy. You can also add spices and seasonings to the mushrooms before cooking, such as taco seasoning, lime juice, or adobo sauce for a spicy kick. Another option is to grill the mushrooms. Toss them with olive oil, tamari or soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar to enhance their flavour, and then grill until tender, juicy, and charred.

Assembling the tacos

Once the mushrooms are cooked, it's time to assemble the tacos. Warm up some corn or flour tortillas and add the mushroom filling. Top with your favourite ingredients. Some popular options include avocado, black beans, corn, shredded cabbage, salsa, cilantro, and plant-based cheese or sour cream for a vegan option.

Side dishes and drinks

Mushroom tacos can be served on their own or with a variety of side dishes. Some ideas include Mexican street corn, rice and beans, tortilla chips with salsa, or a taco salad made with mixed greens and leftover taco fillings. For drinks, margaritas are always a fun choice!

Meat alternatives in mushroom tacos

Mushrooms are a great meat alternative for tacos, offering an earthy meatiness that means you won't miss the meat. They are versatile, quick to cook, and can be seasoned to taste just like meat.

Types of Mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms are a popular choice for tacos due to their satisfying meatiness and umami flavour. They are often referred to as the "steak of mushrooms". Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, are another good option as they have a deeper umami flavour and are more affordable than some other mushrooms. White button mushrooms will also work, as will a blend of different mushrooms.

Preparation

To prepare the mushrooms, you can either slice them into long thin pieces or blend them into a mince in a food processor. If you want a more textured filling, you can leave some of the mushrooms quartered or even whole. You can also add breadcrumbs to the mix to create a thicker, heartier texture.

Cooking

Mushrooms are typically cooked in a skillet with oil or butter over medium to medium-high heat until tender and golden brown. You can also add onions, garlic, and spices to the mix for added flavour. Season with salt and pepper, and other seasonings like cumin, chilli powder, paprika, and garlic powder to taste.

Toppings

The beauty of tacos is that you can top them with your favourite ingredients. Popular toppings for mushroom tacos include avocado, corn, black beans, shredded cabbage, salsa, cheese, sour cream, and cilantro. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy flavour.

Final Thoughts

Mushrooms are a delicious and satisfying meat alternative for tacos, offering a meaty texture and flavour that can be tailored to your taste preferences. They are a quick and easy option for a weeknight dinner and can be made vegan or vegetarian, depending on your choice of toppings.

Frequently asked questions