Mushrooms are one of those foods people either hate or love. The good news is, if you don’t like mushrooms, chances are you may have only tried the white button mushrooms that tend to be the most commonly used on pizza and in sauces. There are actually many types of mushrooms and they each have a unique look and taste. Whether you love mushrooms or think you hate them, don’t stay in the dark.
Here are several reasons to try another variety:
Weight loss. Mushrooms are a low-calorie food and can replace meat in many different recipes.
Health benefits. Loaded with many health boosting vitamins, fiber, protein and antioxidants, mushrooms also lower risk of Alzheimer’s, heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
Variety. There are enough types of mushrooms to offer plenty of options.
Here are a few common types:
- Portobello mushrooms have a texture and taste that can be compared to meat and can be featured as the main dish. Marinate to grill or roast.
- Shitake mushrooms have a woody and slightly smoky flavor and can be added to soups or stir fry.
- Enoki mushrooms look similar to bean sprouts and have a crunchy bite perfect for salads and sandwiches.
- Morels have a unique and delicate nutty flavor. They are a highly desired ingredient, so tend to be on the pricey side.
- Porcini are extremely popular in gourmet dishes and can be grilled or added to a salad.
When cooking with mushrooms, always buy good quality, clean them thoroughly before eating and never pick or eat wild mushrooms, as certain wild poisonous mushrooms resemble other wild non-poisonous varieties.
“Why did the mushroom go to the party? Because he’s a fungi!” Louis Tomlinson