- Latin: Pleurotus djamor
- English: Pink Oyster Mushroom
- German: Rosen-Seitling
What are Pink Oyster Mushrooms?
I came across this gem at my favourite mushroom seller Fred. A big fan of pleurotus mushrooms, commonly called ‘oyster mushrooms‘, I was really curious when I first saw the pink oyster mushroom.
The ‘Pleurotus djamor‘ is smaller than its usual white and off-white siblings, and it simply looks beautiful.
How do Pink Oyster Mushrooms taste?
Its Wikipedia article describes the taste as both meaty and fishy at the same time. I cannot agree more. While I merely sautéed the pink oyster mushrooms in a pan with some olive oil and garlic, it quickly acquired a nice meaty chew and a slight seafood umami-ness to it. That means that the pink oyster mushroom can easily be a meat substitute when making a vegetarian meal.
However, do not try eating it raw. There is an acidity which its paler siblings do not have.
How do you cook Pink Oyster Mushrooms?
I love pleurotus for their amazing pairing with meat and herbs. While I have only sautéed my pink oyster mushrooms, I believe grilling them on a barbecue with meat or seafood while make them a wonderful accompaniment!
There are people who like pleurotus in a soup. Personally I find it a waste that you miss its interaction with oil, which helps to release its meatiness, and in the case of the pink one, its seafood-like flavour.
Where can you buy Pink Oyster Mushrooms?
I have never seen the Pleurotus djamor being sold in a supermarket. It could be because of its very short shelf life. Mine kept in the fridge for a day and the next day, it started to deteriorate. This is the reason why even in the farmers’ market, pink oyster mushrooms are pricier and sold in small amounts.
