New England-Style “Mock Lobster” Rolls
When you stumble upon prime, young chicken of the woods (preferably Laetiporus cincinnatus) mushrooms, consider trying this recipe. When prepared correctly, the texture and flavor are a near-perfect match for lobster.
Proper Boiling: Chicken of the woods (COW) must be thoroughly cooked to break down tough cell walls and neutralize compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress in some people.
The Method: Always begin by breaking your clean, freshly harvested COW into bite-sized chunks or strips. Boil these pieces in water for 12 minutes. This initial boil is essential for ensuring the mushroom is tender, digestible, and safe before any secondary seasoning takes place.
Ingredients
• 2 cups pre-boiled chicken of the woods. Choose only young, tender mushrooms.
• 1 cup water
• 1 small strip of dried dulse or kelp
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay
• pinch of salt
• 3 tbsp high-quality mayonnaise
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp finely minced celery
• 1 tsp minced fresh chives
• a dash of Worcestershire sauce
• a pinch of white sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3-4 top-loading hot dog/brioche buns
• extra butter for toasting
• paprika or Old Bay for garnish
Instructions
Prep: After boiling for 12 minutes, strain your mushrooms thoroughly. Pat them gently with a paper towel to remove excess surface moisture.
Infuse: In a small saucepan, combine the water, dulse, Old Bay, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the boiled mushrooms and simmer for 4–5 minutes to absorb the coastal flavor. Drain and cool to room temperature.
Dress: Whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, chives, Worcestershire, and sugar.
Combine: Toss the mushrooms into the dressing. Chill for 15–20 minutes to let flavors meld.
Assemble: Toast your buttered buns on a skillet or flat-top grill until golden. Stuff with the salad, garnish with paprika or extra chives, and serve immediately.
Do you have a favorite mushroom dish? We want to see it! Send us your recipe (and photos) for a chance to be featured in an upcoming recipe post.
Myco Matters Newsletter
A publication of the Mid-Hudson Mycological Association. Copyright 2026
Photos by Fletcher Haug
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