Lion's Mane Steak with Balsamic Pan Sauce and Polenta

Ingredients:

For the Lion's Mane Steak

• 2 large Lion's Mane mushroom caps, sliced into thick "steaks"
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

For the Balsamic Pan Sauce:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter or vegan butter

For the Polenta:

• 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter or vegan butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Polenta:

   • In a large saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the salt.
   • Slowly whisk in the polenta, reducing the heat to low. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the polenta thickens and becomes creamy, about 30-40 minutes.
   • Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with black pepper. Keep warm.

2. Cook the Lion’s Mane Steaks:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Season the Lion's Mane mushroom slices with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
   • Add the mushroom slices to the skillet and cook until golden brown and tender, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Balsamic Pan Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Pour in the balsamic vinegar, vegetable broth, honey (or maple syrup), and soy sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
   • Cook the sauce until it reduces by half and thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the fresh thyme and butter, whisking until the butter melts and the sauce is glossy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Dish:

   • Spoon the creamy polenta onto plates.
   • Place the Lion's Mane mushroom steaks on top of the polenta.
   • Drizzle the balsamic pan sauce over the mushrooms.
   • Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired.

Enjoy your gourmet Lion's Mane Steak with Balsamic Pan Sauce and Polenta, a dish that highlights the meaty texture of the mushroom with a rich, flavorful sauce and creamy polenta for a complete, satisfying meal.