King oyster mushrooms (Eringi) have become very popular among the new generation of consumers and are now used both fresh and in powdered extract form. This is due to their high nutritional value, low calorie content, and richness in vitamins and minerals, making them highly beneficial to human health. As a result, a wide variety of king oyster mushroom dishes have been developed, many of which are integrated into Thai cuisine to enhance their nutritional benefits even further.
Get to Know King Oyster Mushrooms (Eringi) Better
King oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus eryngii) belong to the oyster mushroom family and originate from the Mediterranean region. They have gained significant popularity across Asia due to their versatile use in cooking and ability to enhance the flavor of various dishes. Whether for children or adults, white king oyster mushrooms pair excellently with meats and spices thanks to their neutral taste.
They also help enhance the aroma and savory depth of food. In a 100-gram serving, king oyster mushrooms contain just 24 calories, as well as protein, fiber, linoleic acid (a healthy fat), calcium, and a wide range of essential minerals.
This mushroom is also rich in B vitamins and vitamin D. With such qualities — from aroma and flavor to high nutritional value — king oyster mushrooms have become widely popular across both Europe and Asia, particularly in Thailand, Taiwan, Japan, and China, where they are embraced as a healthy food choice.
The Many Health Benefits of King Oyster Mushrooms
Eating king oyster mushrooms doesn’t just bring rich flavor and aroma — it also offers a variety of health benefits. Studies have confirmed that these mushrooms help promote human health, can help prevent numerous diseases, and are considered among the highest quality mushrooms in Thailand. Here are the key benefits you should know:
-
King oyster mushrooms and royal oyster mushrooms are the same species. They resemble oysters in shape and belong to the oyster mushroom family. They contain over 25% protein and are low in cholesterol, which is why they are known as “royal oyster mushrooms.”
-
The price of king oyster mushrooms starts at around 100 baht per kilogram, but it may be higher if sourced from organic farms.
-
Smaller-sized king oyster mushrooms are highly popular in cooking due to their ease of preparation, great taste, and chewy texture. They usually start at 60 baht per 500 grams.
-
Cultivating king oyster mushrooms requires controlled temperature and humidity. Ideal conditions include a cool environment around 25°C and humidity between 70–75%. The growing medium must also be sterilized to ensure the best quality yield.
What to Know Before Cooking with Mushrooms
If you’re interested in cooking with king oyster mushrooms, it’s important to understand that while they offer many health benefits, there are also potential risks. These mushrooms should be consumed in moderation, as excessive intake may negatively impact health. This is especially true for individuals who are allergic to mushrooms, as they may experience vomiting, dizziness, or severe diarrhea. Additionally, king oyster mushrooms can closely resemble certain toxic varieties, so it’s best to buy them only from reputable farms or trusted sources.