A method of forming an edible meat substitute product includes growing fungal cells in a growth media such that the fungal cells produce a mycelium mass having a protein content of greater than 40 wt % of a dry mass of the mycelium mass. The method includes separating the mycelium mass from the growth media. The method includes disposing the mycelium mass on a base of a mold. The method includes applying a uniaxial pressure to the mycelium mass via a follower to produce a compacted mycelium mass having a moisture content in a range of 65 vol % to 85 vol % and having a shape corresponding to a shape of the mold. A plurality of fibers of the compacted mycelium mass are aligned in a direction orthogonal to the direction of the applied uniaxial pressure.