Three golden-brown vegan crab cakes are served on a ceramic plate, garnished with fresh parsley. A small bowl of creamy sauce, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs are placed nearby on a light-colored rustic table setting.

Pom Pom Mushroom Crab Cakes (Vegan Recipe)

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If you’ve ever missed the flaky, crispy magic of a good crab cake but want to keep things plant-based, this one’s for you. Pom pom mushrooms have a texture that’s shockingly close to crab meat when shredded and seared right. Add a few pantry staples, and you’ve got something crispy on the outside, tender in the middle, and completely satisfying.

This is the vegan recipe that turns mushroom skeptics into believers.

Why Pom Pom Mushrooms Work So Well

They’ve got that stringy, layered texture that tears apart like crab. When you cook them down and mix in seasoning, the taste leans savory with just a little sweetness, kind of like shellfish. Not fishy. Just full of that umami pull.

You’ll want to start by prepping the mushroom the right way. If you’ve never cooked one before, follow this quick guide:
How to Cook Pom Pom Mushrooms for the First Time

Ingredients (All Vegan)

  • 1 large pom pom mushroom, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegan mayo
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water (let sit 5 mins)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Method

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add shallots and garlic. Cook until soft.
  2. Add shredded pom pom mushrooms and sauté until lightly browned.
  3. Let the mix cool slightly, then transfer to a bowl.
  4. Stir in all other ingredients. Mix gently until it holds together.
  5. Shape into small patties. Chill for 10 minutes if you have time.
  6. Pan-fry in a bit of oil until golden on both sides. Flip once. Don’t mess with them too much.

Serve hot. A squeeze of lemon on top takes it to the next level. Add a vegan aioli if you’re feeling extra.

Want More Vegan Ideas?

This crab cake recipe is part of a full guide on meatless mushroom meals:
Vegan Recipes with Pom Pom Mushrooms

Or if you’re just starting out and need the basics:
The Complete Guide to Pom Pom Mushroom Recipes