Published By: Sanjukta

8 classic mushroom recipes from around the world

Delight in every bite with the earthy goodness of mushrooms

Mushrooms are pretty magical, right? Not only do they have this amazing, earthy flavor, but they also bring a meaty texture to the table that makes them a favorite for both vegetarians and meat lovers. Whether they’re wild and foraged or grown right in your local farm, mushrooms have a special way of elevating any dish. They’re packed with nutrients, super versatile, and can be used in everything from soups to pies, to pasta, and even curries.

Across the world, mushrooms have become staples in so many iconic dishes, each one with its own local twist. From the flaky manitaropita in Greece to Japan’s cozy kinoko curry, these fungi have found their way into kitchens and hearts everywhere.

Manitaropita from Greece

Ever tried Greek pies, or "pitas"? Well, manitaropita is another spin on this classic, but with mushrooms! This dish originated from the northern region of Kastoria, where they used to forage for wild mushrooms. Nowadays, cultivated mushrooms are the go-to. The filling? A yummy mix of sautéed aromatics, mushrooms,, feta, paprika, and some dried herbs, all tucked into flaky layers of phyllo dough. It's crispy, savory and so good.

Mushroom Stroganoff (Russia)

A vegetarian twist on the famous meat stroganoff, this Russian dish features mushrooms as the main star, cooked in a creamy sauce made with sour cream, onions, and mustard. The combination of tangy and savory flavors makes this a comforting dish, typically served over rice or noodles.

Rogani Kumbh (India)

Rogani Kumbh is a delicious mushroom dish from India, and its name says it all! "Rogani" refers to the reddish hue from the tomato sauce, while "kumbh" means mushrooms. This comforting stew is made with various mushrooms like oyster, porcini, and portobello, and served with rice and a dollop of yogurt. While Indian food can pack a spicy punch, this dish is surprisingly mild, but still full of rich flavors.

Matsutake Gohan (Japan)

Matsutake gohan is a fragrant Japanese rice dish featuring matsutake mushrooms, known for their distinct aroma and flavor. The mushrooms are gently simmered with rice, dashi (Japanese soup stock), soy sauce, and sake, creating a delicate and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Japanese cuisine.

Pasta Alla Boscaiola from Italy

If you love pasta (and who doesn’t?), then Pasta alla Boscaiola from Italy is a must-try. The name literally means "woodcutter’s pasta," a nod to the foragers who collect wild mushrooms during autumn. This Tuscan sauce is made with tomatoes, ground meat, and mushrooms, often porcini, but really any mushroom will do. Toss it with some fresh tagliatelle or penne, and you’ve got a rich and savory dish that screams comfort.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup (Hungary)

This rustic Hungarian dish combines mushrooms with a paprika-spiced broth, giving it a unique and warming flavor. Sour cream is stirred in to add richness, and the dish is finished with fresh dill. It’s a hearty soup that brings out the earthiness of the mushrooms with a hint of spice.

Cream of Mushroom Soup (United States)

This creamy, comforting soup is a staple in American kitchens. Made with a blend of mushrooms, aromatics, cream, and broth, the soup is pureed to create a smooth texture. It’s often served as a starter or used as a base for casseroles.

Champiñones al Ajillo (Spain)

A beloved Spanish tapas dish, champiñones al ajillo (garlic mushrooms) is a simple but flavorful recipe. Mushrooms are sautéed in olive oil with garlic, white wine, and a touch of parsley. Often served as an appetizer, these garlicky mushrooms pair perfectly with crusty bread or wine.