Nutritional Benefits of Mushrooms – Fabulous Fungi
Throughout history mushrooms have been regarded as magical and mysterious, a delicacy, and deadly.
Mushrooms are Healthy
1. Edible mushrooms offer many nutritional benefits including:
- protein
- vitamin D
- potassium and other minerals
- antioxidants
2. Mushrooms also contain compounds called polysaccharides that promote the healthy function of the immune system.
Mushroom Shopping
Foragers put their lives on the line when hunting fungi for medicinal and culinary use. Even today, foraging for wild mushrooms should be done with an expert mycologist by your side!
Fortunately, at most local grocery stores you will find a tasty selection of mushrooms that are safe to eat.
Many mushrooms have to be foraged by hand, while others can be harvested like a small crop. This results in a difference in price.
Mushroom selection and storage can vary by type. Generally, mushrooms should be tender but firm to touch, not wet or gummy. Organic is best. Store in the fridge in a ventilated package to keep moisture out. Most mushrooms should be used within a week.
Types of Mushrooms to Try
You may want to occasionally splurge for these varieties of fabulous fungi:
Truffles
Truffle, crown jewel of mushrooms, is one of the most expensive foods in the world. Trained dogs are required to sniff out truffles from beneath the roots of chestnut and hazel trees. Truffles are used in exotic dishes, side dishes, soups, and dips.
Maitake
Maitake is a late summer and autumn fungi found at the foot of oak trees. Best harvested when young and tender to retain their flavor. These are wonderful for soups, sauces, and breads.
Chanterelle Mushrooms
Chanterelle mushrooms are unmistakable with their cheery yellow-gold coloring. This mushroom has a woodsy, apricot flavor. Found only in the wild, chanterelles live in a symbiotic partnership with its host tree, allowing it to store nutrients it could not acquire on its own. Chanterelles pair nicely with eggs and over rice/other grains.
Crimini
Crimini (“baby bella”) and porcini mushrooms have mild flavors and medium texture. Less expensive than the others, these can be used in a variety of recipes, from breads and muffins to sauces and stews.
By Dr. Maria Zangara ND, L.Ac, MIFHI