Gochujang-Glazed Maitake Mushroom 'Ribs' with Crispy Garlic Crumble
Tender, meaty maitake mushrooms are pan-seared and coated in a savory, spicy-sweet gochujang glaze, creating a surprisingly satisfying vegetarian 'rib' experience. Topped with an aromatic, crunchy crumble of fried garlic and toasted sesame seeds, this snack offers a complex interplay of textures and deep umami flavors.

Prep Time
60 min
Difficulty
Hard
Servings
4
Calories
280 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the maitake mushrooms: Gently tear the maitake mushroom heads into large, rib-like pieces, resembling spare ribs. Trim any tough stems. You want pieces that are substantial but manageable for searing.
~5 min - 2
Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk until well combined. Heat gently over low heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened. Set aside.
~5 min - 3
Prepare the crispy garlic: Thinly slice 4 cloves of garlic. Heat 3 tablespoons of neutral oil in the large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn it. Remove the garlic with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve the garlic-infused oil in the skillet.
~7 min - 4
Sear the mushrooms: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of neutral oil to the skillet with the garlic-infused oil. Increase heat to medium-high. Place the maitake mushroom pieces in the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and slightly crispy.
~10 min - 5
Glaze the mushrooms: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the prepared gochujang glaze over the seared mushrooms in the skillet. Gently toss the mushrooms to coat them evenly with the glaze. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and cling to the mushrooms.
~3 min - 6
Prepare the crumble and garnish: Finely mince the remaining 2 cloves of garlic. In a small dry skillet, toast the sesame seeds over medium-low heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, toasted sesame seeds, and the crispy fried garlic. Chop the green onions.
~5 min - 7
Assemble and serve: Arrange the glazed maitake mushroom 'ribs' on a serving plate. Sprinkle generously with the crispy garlic and sesame seed crumble. Garnish with chopped green onions.
~2 min
Tips
- For extra crispy mushrooms, ensure your skillet is well-heated before adding them and avoid overcrowding the pan. You may need to sear them in batches.
- The crispy garlic crumble can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in a dry pan to regain crispness if needed.
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