How to Make Mushroom Seasoning

A few years ago, I discovered the existence of mushroom seasoning, an alternative to MSG made from ground mushrooms, salt, and sometimes yeast and mushroom extracts.

Shortly after trying it, I knew I had to create a homemade version. Seriously, this condiment is like MAGIC. Once you start using it, there is no going back. It’s that essential ingredient that elevates flavors, adding depth and complexity to many dishes.

Although my version is quite different from the store-bought brand, it does have that meaty, umami flavor that we all love so much. It’s basically umami in powdered form, and I’m sure it will quickly become an essential in your kitchen!

⭐️ Why You Should Try It

Your next favorite (secret) ingredient.

When I published this recipe back in 2019, I had no idea it would be that successful as there were literally no recipes for such powder. Over the years, I have received lots of feedback from readers who are now using it on a daily basis!

This mushroom seasoning is basically an umami bomb – it deepens the flavors of almost any dish! What’s umami, you may ask. Umami is the fifth basic taste, after sweet, salty, bitter, and sour. According to the Umami Information Center, “Umami plays an important role in determining the deliciousness of a dish.”

Since dried shiitake mushrooms are high in glutamate, they are perfect for creating a powder that imparts meaty and savory notes to all kinds of dishes.

Made in just 5 minutes with one blender.

You will be surprised by how quick and easy my recipe is! Simply add dried shiitakes and salt to a blender and blend until you get a very fine powder. Your mushroom powder is now ready to use!

It keeps forever.

Another advantage of this mushroom seasoning is that since it only contains dry ingredients, it keeps very well in your pantry. I usually make a big batch, and it lasts me over a year.

You can even transfer it to small jars, print a nice label, and gift it to friends and family!

📘 What Is Mushroom Seasoning

Mushroom seasoning is a flavoring powder that can used as a healthier alternative to glutamate. It’s perfect for adding umami and enhancing the flavor of your recipes.

This condiment can be used almost everywhere, from soups to stir-fries, marinades, and more!

🍄 Ingredient Notes

Dried mushrooms

The main ingredient of this umami powder is dried mushrooms. You can use any dried mushrooms, such as shiitakes, porcini, or oyster mushrooms.

I have tried this recipe with different varieties, and I highly recommend shiitakes as they bring the most flavor (they also tend to be cheaper). The only variety of mushrooms I would advise staying away from is Morels, as they contain some toxins that can potentially cause health issues.

Where to buy: You can buy dried shiitakes in most Asian supermarkets. Both whole and sliced mushrooms work.

Salt

Salt is also a natural flavor enhancer. Unlike other recipes, I use a relatively small amount of salt, so there’s no need to adjust the saltiness of your dishes when incorporating this mushroom seasoning.

Note: Do not use wet salts such as Fleur de Sel or French Grey, or they will make your powder clump.

🥣 How to Make It

I like to start with dried shiitakes to save time, but if you don’t have access to them or simply prefer to make your own, you can dehydrate fresh shiitakes using a dehydrator. Check the box below for the instructions.

1. Add the ingredients to a blender. Place the dried shiitakes and salt into the bowl of a high-speed blender.

2. Blend. Blend for 30-40 seconds or until you get a very fine powder. Be aware that the mushroom powder is very fine and light, a bit like powdered sugar. So, after blending, I highly recommend waiting for a couple of minutes before opening the blender lid for the powder to settle a bit.
3. Transfer to a container. Finally, transfer the mushroom seasoning to a clean glass container or jar.

🌿 Variations

Although this version is already super tasty on its own, you can customize it to your liking by adding extra ingredients. Here are a few suggestions:

• Add dried seaweed: Dried seaweed such as nori or wakame is also packed with umami. You can use, for example, 2 ounces of dried shiitakes and 2 ounces of nori. Be aware that it will impart a sea flavor to your mushroom seasoning.
• Add dried onion powder: Add 2 tablespoons of dried onion powder to your seasoning.
• Adds herbs: For a more herby seasoning, feel free to add dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or ground black pepper.
• Increase the amount of salt: If you are looking to make a version of this seasoning closer to Traders Joe’s Umami Seasoning Blend, use about 1 tablespoon of salt instead of the recommended 1 teaspoon.

🍜 Where to Use It

You can use this seasoning powder basically everywhere! It will deepen the main flavors and add meaty, almost earthy notes. Here are a few ideas:

Soups and stews

Incorporate a few tablespoons of mushroom seasoning into noodle or vegetable soups such as vegan ramen, Bun Thai (hot and sour soup), or Vietnamese “beef” stew! Note: I recommend using about one tablespoon of powder for every 6-8 cups of soup.

Stir-fries

Stir in a few teaspoons of mushroom seasoning toward the end of cooking for extra umami! It works great in many Asian dishes like noodles or vegetable stir-fries.

Meat alternatives

Use it as a flavoring to season your plant-based meats. I enjoy using it to season vegan bologna, vegan “roast pork,” or vegan chicken. I always use it when making this Vegan Foie Gras recipe as well.

Marinades

It’s also perfect for enhancing the flavor of your tofu/tempeh/seitan marinades.

Dips & sauces

Use it in cheesy sauces, hummus, bechamel, pasta sauces, etc.

Note: Be aware that you might have to decrease the amount of salt used in your recipes a little bit, as this powder is slightly salty.

This mushroom flavoring powder is incredibly easy to make and such a great addition to your pantry! It’s an amazing ingredient that will enhance the flavor of your recipes!

🧂 More Plant-Based Condiments

Easy Hoisin Sauce

Vegan Meat Floss

Vegan Oyster Sauce (Stir Fry Sauce)

Homemade Fermented Buffalo Sauce

⭐️ Did you like this recipe? Let us know in the comments below, and tag us on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest!