How to Find the Best Mushroom Powder

With their savory flavor and disease-fighting nutrients, the best mushroom powders are a natural superfood. Now, they’re being used in everything from coffee to powders and gummies. One of the more popular uses is mushroom powder, which is simply dehydrated and finely ground mushrooms. “It’s a great way to add umami to your favorite recipes,” says Nikki DeGidio, kitchen manager at Seattle’s Foraged & Found Edibles. She adds that it can also help add an adaptogenic element to tea, coffee and smoothies.

While you can find single-variety mushroom powders, there are also blends designed to meet specific needs. For example, reishi mushroom powder is known as an adaptogen to help manage stress and support overall well-being, while cordyceps mushroom powder can improve athletic performance and endurance. And lion’s mane mushroom powder is often recommended for improving cognitive function and boosting mental clarity.

Harnessing the Benefits: Choosing the Best Mushroom Powder

Mushroom powder is typically made by pouring a mix of dried mushrooms onto fruit leather trays in a dehydrator or baking them in the oven at low heat until they’re dry. Then, they’re blitzed in a spice grinder or food processor to create a powder. Gentl recommends storing the mix in an airtight container and keeping it out of direct sunlight, as this will help preserve the nutrients and antioxidants.

She suggests using it as an umami seasoning or in place of salt when cooking, like when making gnocchi or infusing cocktails. She also loves it in compound butters or whisked into the dry ingredients of brownies and spice cookies. She even sprinkles it on roasted vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich.