Oyster Mushroom Ceviche (Plant-Based)
Ceviche is a popular dish in Latin American cuisine that traditionally features raw fish marinated in citrus juice. This dish is usually served with fresh vegetables and is often made using seafood such as shrimp, lobster, or crab. While delicious, these seafood options are not always the most sustainable or environmentally friendly. Oyster mushrooms are the perfect plant-based alternative to seafood in ceviche recipes. So if you're looking for a delicious and nutritious plant-based meal, look no further than oyster mushroom ceviche!
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Three words: Oyster. Mushroom. Ceviche.
I don’t even know where to begin with this. Since going plant-based, the one dish that I crave regularly is ceviche! The tangy citrus, the hit of spice, the aromatic cilantro. Ceviche has always been a favorite and a dish that I would enjoy often.
There had been many times I had tried plant-based ceviches only to be disappointed. Something was missing and, in many cases, under-seasoned. I finally got to it. I started researching different recipes, testing and trying them out. Yet, nothing came close. So, I started to think about the ceviche my mom always makes and thought, ‘why not swap the fish for mushrooms?’
Let me tell you, this was genius. For all the restaurants that try and create a plant-based ceviche, listen up… don’t get fancy or creative; keep it simple and original. But most importantly, don’t be stingy with that damn salt!
Oyster mushrooms are perfect for this recipe. They are meaty and chewy, reminiscent of a fish texture found in ceviche. The key to this recipe is to let the mushrooms sit in for two hours or more as if you were curing fish for ceviche.
What are the health benefits of mushrooms?
Great source of protein
Mushrooms are an excellent source of protein and provide many essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutrient-rich food perfect for vegans and vegetarians. They are also low in calories and fat. Furthermore, mushrooms are a good source of dietary fiber and contain compounds that can boost your immune system.
Lower Cholesterol and Blood Pressure
Oyster mushrooms contain compounds shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. This is good news for your heart health, as high cholesterol and blood pressure are two leading risk factors for heart disease. Adding oyster mushrooms to your diet is an easy and delicious way to help keep your heart healthy.
Boost Immunity
Oyster mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which have powerful immune-boosting properties. They've been shown to increase the production of white blood cells, which fight infection and disease. So if you're looking for a natural way to boost your immunity, look no further than oyster mushrooms.
Aid in Digestion
Oyster mushrooms contain prebiotic fiber, which helps feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. These good bacteria are essential for proper digestion, as they break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently. If you often suffer from digestive issues like bloating or constipation, adding oyster mushrooms to your diet may provide relief.
Mushrooms Can Boost Your Immune System
Your immune system is your body's natural defense against infection and illness. Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to keep your immune system functioning properly. And mushrooms may be especially beneficial for immunity.
One study found that preparations made from white button mushrooms can stimulate the production of antibodies and white blood cells. These cells play an important role in fighting off infection. Another study showed that consuming beta-glucans—a type of fiber found in mushrooms—can increase the activity of natural killer cells. Natural killer cells are a type of white blood cell that helps fight off viral infections.
Mushrooms are a Good Source of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are molecules that help protect your cells from damage. They do this by scavenging harmful toxins known as free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Eating foods high in antioxidants is one of the best ways to protect your health. And mushrooms just so happen to be one of the best sources of antioxidants around. One study found mushrooms have higher levels of two important antioxidants—ergothioneine and glutathione—than any other food.
Oyster Mushrooms are the Perfect Vegan Alternative to Fish
Oyster mushroom ceviche is a delicious plant-based dish that makes an excellent replacement for traditional fish ceviche. Not only is it healthier and environmentally friendly, but it's also just as delicious! To make oyster mushroom ceviche, simply marinate oyster mushrooms in lime juice, diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips or on its own as a light starter or side dish.
Rich in Umami flavor
Oyster mushrooms, in particular, have a delicate flavor that makes them ideal for plant-based versions of dishes like ceviche. When marinated in citrus juice, oyster mushrooms take on a slightly sweet taste that pairs well with the savory flavors of fresh vegetables. This dish is typically served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for summertime gatherings.
Environmentally friendly
Not only are they delicious and nutritious, but oyster mushrooms are also environmentally friendly. They have a small ecological footprint and can be grown on coffee grounds or other types of waste Products. What's not to love?
Oyster Mushroom Ceviche Recipe
Plant-based, Vegan, Raw
Recipe makes 4 servings for a meal; 12 for appetizer form.
What You’ll Need
1/2 red onion, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
Juice from 3 limes
Juice from 1/2 Valencia Orange
2 cups Oyster Mushrooms, diced
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 - 2 serrano peppers, minced
1/2 tsp. Sea Salt
1 Cucumber, diced or sliced *
2 tsp seaweed flakes
What You’ll Need To Know
Place all ingredients, except the avocado, into a large bowl and toss together until combined, and leave in the refrigerator for 2 hours or more.
When ready to serve, add avocado. Serve chilled.
* I like to enjoy mine with sliced cucumber replacing tortilla chips. If you enjoy tortilla chips, dice the cucumber and mix it with the ingredients. You can also enjoy this with a side of guacamole.
This article was updated by our editors April 2023,
