The task of finding a substitute for that perfect ingredient isn’t a bed of roses. Nothing can replace the ideal component of a masterpiece, but fortunately, there are alternatives that can be used when it comes to food.
However, what are you to do if you find yourself having to replace Cremini mushrooms? These small mushrooms are tasty, loved by people around the world in all types of dishes for their immense flavor.
So, if you need to replace Cremini mushrooms, you’d better find a substitute that is just as good. We’ve got you covered with a selection of the very best cremini mushroom substitutes available.
By the end of our article, you’ll know exactly which flavorful fungi you should be on the lookout for in your local grocery store.
What Are Cremini Mushrooms?
Cremini mushrooms are a variety of edible fungi scientifically termed Agaricus bisporus. This classification is sold in two forms: immature, white, and mature, which are brown.
Most of us know the base variety of cremini mushrooms as the common white button mushroom. Common mushrooms are marked and sold as cremini mushrooms when they are immature and brown.
They go by many names, including the Swiss, Roman, and Italian brown mushroom, as well as chestnut mushroom or crimini mushroom.
What Is The Difference Between Cremini Mushrooms And Normal Mushrooms?
As mentioned, the common white button mushroom is the exact same type as Cremini. When Agaricus bisporus mushrooms mature, they turn brown and are classified as Portabellini or Portobello mushrooms instead.
Cremini mushrooms are also brown but are instead harvested immature. The similarity in color often leads to immature cremini mushrooms being colloquially called Baby ‘Bellas’ and Baby Portabellas.
They are the ideal midway point between unripe white button mushrooms and the most mature variety, Portobello.
What Do Cremini Mushrooms Taste Like?
Expect a rich, nutty mushroomy flavor that’s more intense than white button mushrooms but a little less intense than Portobello. Cremini is also firmer than their white counterparts but not as dense as Portabella mushrooms.
As mushrooms mature, they begin to lose moisture. As the more mature mushroom, expect a consistency that retains its form well through cooking.
Always pay attention to the gills on the underside of the mushroom top. If they’re intact, you’ve got fresh shrooms.
What Can Substitute For Cremini Mushrooms Perfectly?
Cremini mushrooms are a variety considered to be an excellent all-rounder. They work great in sauces, on burgers, in soups, stir fries, and in so many more meals.
Many feel you can add button mushrooms to just about anything, serving as a delicious protein.
When you need to replace Cremini mushrooms, always consider the exact use and consult our upcoming list of the best alternatives out there to find a similar size and flavor.
The Best Cremini Mushroom Substitutes
Here’s a breakdown of all the mushrooms that are most similar to Cremini’s flavor and texture.
1. White Button Or Table Mushroom
Most cooks are looking for a milder mushroom taste than Portobello, which makes white button mushrooms the best cremini mushroom substitute.
Also known as table mushrooms, this is the variety that you’ll find readily available almost anywhere at the lowest cost.
White button mushrooms are harvested at their youngest state, bringing down the price and upping availability.
Most white button mushrooms will be smaller than Cremini mushrooms, making them a prime alternative to use in salads, soups, and all meals calling for small mushrooms served whole.
Both the flavor and texture are similar, but white button mushrooms are slightly moister, and therefore cook away quicker into sauces and stews.
2. Shiitake Mushrooms
Large, fleshy Shiitake mushrooms come in a similar shade of light brown and a closely matched size to Cremini mushrooms. The delicate flavor makes them a versatile cremini mushroom substitute that’ll work well in most dishes.
Despite being slightly less intense, Shiitake mushrooms are rich in flavor. While more similar to Portobello’s freshness than white button mushrooms, Shiitake has a taste of its own.
Make sure that you use them fresh to get the full dimension of flavor you’re looking for. Dried Shiitake will work in a pinch, but all the flavor notes are subdued, and there is more earthiness.
Keep in mind, you can store Shiitake mushrooms in a brown paper bag in the fridge for just over a week. Opt for this variety as your substitute in stir-fries and pasta meals, or simple saute and serve.
3. Portobello Mushrooms
If you run out of Cremini mushrooms or are looking for something stronger in flavor, then Portobello mushrooms should be your top choice.
As the most mature version of a cremini mushroom, they’re excellent substitutes for most meals. The extended time before picking rewards one with firm mushrooms full of umami flavor.
They’re richer than other varieties, with a strong mushroom taste that’ll take prominence in your meal. Most Portobello mushrooms are bigger than Cremini, but the texture is nearly identical.
Give Portobello mushrooms a try roasted or baked for the ideal recommended serving suggestion, while adding them to other meals will work just as well.
From topping on burgers to making decadent sauce and soup ingredients, Portobello are great! Their firmness translates to meaty mushrooms with substance regardless of whether you’re cooking them sliced or whole.
4. Oyster Mushrooms
As a wild mushroom, oyster mushrooms can be harder to find and slightly higher priced than other alternatives. However, the mild taste and large size make oyster mushrooms a reliable substitute for cremini mushrooms.
The common oyster mushroom is favored by home-growers and has off-white flesh instead of brown. Look for the whitest oyster mushrooms possible as they become tough and darken with age.
Oyster mushrooms have a very meaty texture that’s far more substantial than other varieties. The density and mildness make them a favorite accompaniment to white meat and seafood.
They’re a must-try for anyone looking for a slightly chewier texture than cremini mushrooms and will be loved by anyone who appreciates earthy flavors.
5. Porcini Mushrooms
Brown-capped Porcini mushrooms are a high-end Cremini mushroom substitute treasured for their tenderness and earthy taste. If you can’t find Porcini, be on the lookout for King Bolete mushrooms, as they are often known instead.
These mushrooms are truly massive so keep this in mind when looking for a substitute. The meatiness and fulfilling smooth texture make them ideal in meals where mushrooms take center stage.
Porcini mushrooms are one of the most delicate varieties. Don’t wash them. Instead, clean them using a damp towel, taking care to work gently. They cook exceptionally quickly and impart immense flavor to anything they’re added to.
From soups to stews, stir-fries, roasts, or served as a side – porcini are among the tastiest variety out there as long as you’re fond of a rich umami flavor.
Both cremini and Porcini mushrooms are a treasured ingredient in risotto, so be sure to give it a try.
6. Morels
Now, not everyone will be able to find or afford morels, but this premier class of mushroom is without a doubt one of the best cremini substitutes.
They’re so mild and flavorful with such a rewardingly meaty taste and texture that even those who dislike mushrooms often end up falling in love with Morels.
Say goodbye to the sliminess of other mushrooms and welcome a complex depth of flavor with a light earthy nuttiness like nothing else.
Morels are a luxury ingredient that is more related to truffles than Cremini mushrooms. There are many different varieties, but most often, you’ll encounter black or yellow morels.
It really doesn’t matter how you serve these tasty forest-growing mushrooms. Sauteed, stewed, roasted, or even served fresh, they’re like few foods you’ve ever tasted before.
Dried or fresh, this is one Cremini substitute that you should stockpile as much of as you can afford when summer starts, and you begin to find them available.
7. Non-Mushroom Cremini Mushroom Substitutes
If you hate mushrooms or feel like putting a spin on one of your favorite recipes, there are non-mushroom Cremini mushroom substitutes available. Here are a few of the most-loved vegetable alternatives available:
Eggplant – Eggplant, otherwise known as brinjals, are a Vegan staple packed with meaty flavor that’s similar to the meatiness of mushrooms but far more pungent in its unique taste
Chickpeas – Chickpeas are a tasty alternative to Cremini mushrooms that come out similar when served ground, so mash cooked chickpeas with a fork or masher until they’re well-crushed
Tofu – Firm tofu works well in the place of mushrooms, but you’ll need to consider flavoring your tofu first by marinating it in a vegetable/chicken stock or use it alongside bolder ingredients
Zucchini – Zucchini and other varieties like the smaller summer squashes can be swapped for mushrooms in most meals thanks to their soft flesh and light but sweet, highly adaptable flavor
Cauliflower – Crunchy, light in flavor, and fresh just like Cremini mushrooms, opt for Cauliflower in a substitute if you want an alternative but aren’t sure what to pick (its one of the most versatile picks available
Which Is The Best Cremini Mushroom Substitute?
Each of these Cremini mushroom substitutes will work in most meals. The best depends on the size and texture you’re looking for and how intense of a mushroom taste you want.
Overall, most people find Portobello to be the most accessible variety and a close match to Cremini across most meals. We suggest trying each variety out so that you know first-hand just how unique each of these flavor profiles is.