Mushrooms are umbrella-shaped fleshy and edible fruit bodies that have several species. It is an edible fungus that can provide several important nutrients. Mushrooms come in lots of different shapes, sizes, and colors. The term mushroom is used to identify the edible sporophores which are often known as a toadstool.
Mushrooms have at least 14,000 varieties though only about half or less than are ok to eat. It has unique flavors with a lot of different cuisines which is made from the mushroom. They are known as the natural multivitamin which includes protein, fiber, potassium, vitamin D, calcium, and more.
Mushroom is made from 90% water. Mushrooms have many antibacterial properties which help to lower cholesterol. They are good for the immune system and helps to treat many diseases like Alzheimer’s, blood pressure, and cancer.
Mushrooms come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Here are the most common mushroom variety and some of their characteristics.
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10 Types Of Mushrooms
White Button Mushroom
It most common and mild-tasting mushroom which popularly available. It is also known as button mushroom because it has a button-type shape. It has a less intense flavor which can be eaten raw or cooked and used in soups, salads, and pizzas. White button mushrooms are low in calories and sugar. They are rich in protein, vitamin D2, rich in calcium which makes the bones strong. It is good for cancer-fighting patients and reduces blood sugar levels.
Portobello Mushroom
Portobello mushrooms are grown in Europe and North America, and most commonly consumed variety in the world. They are dense in texture and have a rich taste. They are very impressive as they have palm size with a meaty texture and earthy flavor. They are a natural source of vitamin D, copper, selenium which need to form connective tissue and produce energy.
Oyster Mushroom
Oyster mushroom is one of the biggest types of edible mushrooms which are most common and versatile. This variety is easy to cultivate and grow mainly on decaying wood. It has a sweet, anise-like smell while it has tender flesh, velvety texture, and mild flavor. Its name is given because it is a similar appearance to the oyster. They are a fat-free and good source of essential minerals and vitamins. It has numerous health benefits like lowers cholesterol, boost heart health and improve metabolism.
Porcini Mushroom
This mushroom variety is popular in Italian cuisine. they are large mushrooms with a cap that grows up to 12 inches in diameter. It has an aromatic, woody, and nutty flavor which gives the smooth texture. it can be used in making meat dishes, sauces, broth, pasta, and vegetarian dishes. They have nutritional benefits like a healthy diet, fiber, antioxidants, protein, iron and which has trans fat or saturated fat.
Shiitake Mushroom
They are one of the popular mushrooms in the world as they are known for their flavor which is a rich, savory taste, and various health benefits. It is grown in Japan. In Japanese shiitake means “oak fungus”. They are popular for their medical properties. It is usually used in soups, stir-fried vegetables, and other recipes. It is low in calories, rich in fiber, vitamin B, which helps in boosting the immune system, lowers cholesterol, and has antibacterial and antiviral effects.
Enoki Mushroom
This variety is grown in winters only. It has small, shiny white caps attached with thin stems and crunchy. They are also called golden needle mushrooms. It has a mild and delicate fruity flavor which can be eaten raw and used for salads, soups, sandwiches, and pasta sauces. It has rich in several minerals, vitamins, iron, phosphorus, selenium, copper, and calcium. It contains amino acids and dietary fiber which lowers cholesterol and improves digestion.
Shimeji Mushroom
This variety is found in Northern Europe which has cracked, speckled brown caps and a white base. It has a bitter nutty taste. It is usually used in stir-fried dishes, soups, stew, and sauces. It is cholesterol and sodium-free, low in fat, and high in dietary fiber. Also a good source of vitamin, protein, zinc, and copper. it lowers cholesterol, aids weight loss, manages diabetes, and natural anti-cancer food.
Chanterelle Mushroom
It is the most popular species of wild mushrooms. They are mainly common in many European cuisines. It has a fruity odor and woody earthy fragrance. They are delicate in flavor and texture, which goes well with stir-fried or sauteed butter, oil, or cream. It has a meaty texture with very low calories and provides fiber and other nutrients. It helps immune-boosting properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidants properties.
Paddy Straw Mushroom
It is one of the easiest mushrooms to cultivate and popular as white button mushrooms. It has a nice flavor, aroma, delicacy, and nutrients. These straw mushrooms are cold and good for summers. It is rich in protein, fiber, iron, vitamin, and minerals. It reduced cholesterol and good for the digestive system. It has natural insulin for diabetics and grows the blood cells which strengthens the bones and good for heart health.
