John Miller
Mushrooms are a type of fungus that come in a variety of colours and sizes. They are native to North America and Europe and are known for their delicate flavour and meaty texture. They are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any diet. While some mushrooms are edible and provide health benefits, others, such as psilocybin mushrooms, are hallucinogenic and may induce anxiety, paranoia, and confusion. These magic mushrooms are illegal in most places and can cause users to see, hear, and feel sensations that seem real but are not.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Fungi |
| Varieties | Psilocybin, Cremini, Truffles, etc. |
| Nutritional value | High in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, potassium, zinc, fiber, protein |
| Calories | Low-calorie food |
| Health benefits | May help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes |
| Environmental impact | Negative environmental impact due to wild mushroom foraging |
| Toxicity | Difficult to overdose on psilocybin mushrooms |
| Legality | Illegal in most places |
| Culinary uses | Can be cooked in various ways, including frying, braising, roasting, grilling, steaming, sautéing, or even eaten raw |
| Pairings | Dairy (especially cheese and sour cream), meats, eggs, vegetables, fresh herbs |
| Storage | Fresh mushrooms can be stored in a paper bag in the crisper drawer for 3-4 days, dried mushrooms can be stored for a year or more |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms
There are over 200 species of magic mushrooms, and they occur in different genera, such as Psilocybe, Cyclocybe, and Hygrophorus. The composition of magic mushrooms varies from genus to genus and species to species. While psilocybin is the principal component, other compounds such as norpsilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, and aeruginascin may also be present, potentially modifying the effects of magic mushrooms. Magic mushrooms can be consumed in various forms, including dried or fresh mushrooms, extracts, or food products such as mushroom edibles or mushroom tea. However, it is important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms can vary from person to person, and there are potential risks associated with their consumption, including the possibility of a "'bad trip' at high doses.
While it is difficult to overdose on psilocybin mushrooms due to their toxicological profile, significantly elevated levels of psilocin can cause acute serotonin syndrome. Additionally, there are risks associated with intravenous injection of mushrooms, including septic shock and multi-system organ failure. Using magic mushrooms with other substances, such as cannabis or alcohol, can also elevate the risk of serious side effects. For individuals with cardiac diseases, the short-term effects of magic mushrooms, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, could be potentially harmful. Therefore, it is important to approach the consumption of magic mushrooms with caution and be aware of the potential risks involved.
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Mushroom health benefits
Mushrooms are not only versatile and delicious but also pack a nutritional punch. They are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and have been recognised as an important part of any diet. With more than 2,000 edible species, they offer a vast array of health benefits. Here are some of the ways in which mushrooms can enhance your health:
Brain Health
Mushrooms have been linked to improved brain function and reduced risk of cognitive impairment. Studies suggest that eating 1 to 2 cups of mushrooms each week may reduce the risk of developing MCI by up to 50%. Lion's mane mushrooms, in particular, have been found to protect against neurological damage and promote nerve tissue growth, which is important for managing Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.
Cancer Prevention
Mushrooms are a rich source of antioxidants glutathione and ergothioneine, which help shield cells from damage. Research has shown that incorporating mushrooms into your diet can lower your risk of cancer by up to 45%. In Japan, a reishi mushroom-based drug is used as part of cancer treatment, and in China, turkey tail mushroom extracts have been approved for use in integrated cancer therapy.
Heart Health
Mushrooms are rich in potassium and low in sodium, which helps to reduce blood pressure. They also contain heart-healthy compounds that help prevent plaque buildup in blood vessels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Gut Health
Mushrooms are a good source of fibre and polysaccharides, which stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. They improve insulin resistance and gut health, and promote the growth of "good" bacteria, which produce neurotransmitters that support mood stability, concentration, and mental well-being.
Immune System Support
Mushrooms contain high amounts of selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6, which help to maintain a healthy immune system. Selenium helps the body produce antioxidant enzymes that prevent cell damage. Vitamin D assists with cell growth and boosts immune function, while vitamin B6 helps form red blood cells, proteins, and DNA.
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Mushroom cultivation
Mushrooms are indeed real and can be cultivated at home or on a commercial scale. There are several methods for mushroom cultivation, ranging from trays, logs, bags, bottles, buckets, and tubs. Each technique has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on the cultivator's preferences and resources. Here is a detailed guide to mushroom cultivation, specifically focusing on the six steps of mushroom farming:
Phase I Composting
The first phase of mushroom farming involves preparing the substrate, which is the material on which the mushrooms will grow. Common substrates include sawdust, wood chips, straw, cotton seed, and various types of grain. The substrate is usually pasteurized or sterilized to eliminate competing organisms and create an ideal environment for mushroom growth.
Phase II Composting
In this phase, the mushroom spawn (specially grown mycelium) is introduced to the substrate. The spawn colonizes the substrate by secreting digestive enzymes that break down its components. Maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels is crucial during this phase to encourage the growth of the mycelium.
Spawning
The spawning phase involves mixing the spawn and supplements evenly throughout the compost. As the spawn grows, it generates heat, and temperature control becomes critical. Excessive heat can damage the mycelium and negatively impact crop productivity. Proper humidity levels are also maintained to prevent the drying of the compost surface or spawn.
Casing
During this stage, mushroom initials develop and gradually grow into pins. Lowering the carbon dioxide content of the room air to 0.08% or lower stimulates the formation of pins. The timing of introducing fresh air is crucial and is a skill learned through experience. After the pins form, they continue to expand and develop into mushrooms.
Pinning
The pinning stage is when the pins, or young mushrooms, are visible. This stage typically occurs 18 to 21 days after the casing phase. Proper humidity and ventilation are essential during pinning to prevent the mushrooms from drying out or becoming too moist.
Cropping
Finally, the cropping phase is when the mushrooms are ready for harvest. Harvestable mushrooms appear after the buttons enlarge and mature. Proper harvesting techniques, such as cutting or twisting the mushrooms at the base, ensure the fruiting body is removed without damaging the mycelium.
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Mushroom foraging
Foraging for mushrooms requires some knowledge and preparation. Firstly, it is crucial to learn about the local mushrooms in your region, as some can be toxic or even deadly. A regional guide to edible mushrooms is essential, and it is recommended to start with the easier-to-identify varieties. Knowing the local trees and their relationship with mushrooms is also important, as mushrooms can grow on or around specific trees, in well-drained or moist soil, or in meadows and woods with certain characteristics.
When heading out to forage, it is important to be prepared. A knife, trowel, brush, and basket or bag are useful tools to have. The knife is for cutting and cleaning the mushrooms, the trowel for digging them out, and the brush for cleaning them on-site to reduce later cleaning. A wicker basket or mesh bag is favoured by foragers as it allows the spores to disperse as they walk, encouraging future mushroom growth. Other recommended items include a notebook and smartphone for notes and pictures, a map and compass for navigation, bug spray, sunscreen, and a snack and water to stay hydrated and energised.
It is generally recommended to avoid consuming mushrooms while foraging, especially in remote locations, as some mushrooms can impair judgement or be toxic. It is also not advisable to snack on raw mushrooms, and it is better to bring lightweight, high-protein food instead. Foraging requires physical activity, as you may need to traverse mountains and hills to find mushrooms, which grow at different elevations throughout the year.
Mushrooms can be found in most places across the United States, except for the dry, desert areas of the Southwest. The Pacific Northwest is known for morel, porcini, chanterelle, and matsutake mushrooms, while the Midwest is a haven for morels, often found near freshly dead elm trees. The Northeast offers penny bun and hedgehog mushrooms, and even the deep South has some varieties like ramps, fiddlehead ferns, and oyster mushrooms.
Foraging is an important cultural heritage in Eastern Europe, and mushrooms play a big part in Chinese cuisine. Foraging allows people to connect with nature and explore wild places, often revealing hidden treasures off the usual trails. It is a rewarding activity that can yield delicious results, but it is important to be mindful of the environment and potential dangers.
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Mushroom recipes
Mushrooms are incredibly versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, braising, roasting, grilling, steaming, sautéing, or even eating them raw. They are a mainstay in vegan and vegetarian cooking, but they also go well with chicken or red meat.
When choosing mushrooms, look for fresh mushrooms without slimy, mouldy, or black spots. Some dirt is okay, just wash the mushrooms before eating. For varieties with gills, the more open the gills, the older the mushroom, which can be a good thing as older mushrooms tend to be more flavourful.
Superb Sautéed Mushrooms
This recipe is a great topping for steak or baked potatoes. Heat olive oil and butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced button mushrooms, red cooking wine, teriyaki sauce, sliced garlic, garlic salt, and black pepper. Cook and stir until the mushrooms are lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the mushrooms are tender, for another 5 to 8 minutes.
Russian Mushroom-Barley Soup
This soup is a traditional Eastern European dish. Start with fresh mushrooms and add them to a simmering mixture of ginger, garlic, and coconut milk. Keep simmering until there is almost no liquid left in the pot.
Grilled Mushrooms with Flatbread
This recipe is a great appetizer or a meatless main. Grill maitake mushrooms and serve them with a toasty naan-like flatbread.
Mushroom Risotto
Make a risotto flavoured with dried porcinis, sautéed mixed fresh mushrooms, and stock infused with mushroom trimmings.
Eggs en Cocotte
This simple dish is made by baking eggs in individual ramekins with mushroom duxelles, melted Gruyère, and a dash of heavy cream.
Mushroom Ragù
This savoury vegetarian dish features mushrooms cooked in a rich tomatoey sauce with piccata sauce, capers, olives, lemon juice, and butter.
Mushroom Pizza
Mushrooms are a great topping for pizza, pairing well with other vegetables and fresh herbs.
Stir-Fried Mushrooms and Cabbage
Stir-fry some mushrooms and serve them with Japanese udon and a mushroom-soy broth.
Mushroom Salads
Try a salad with baby kale, sautéed mushrooms, shallots, and a sherry vinegar dressing. Alternatively, use oyster mushrooms and watercress, or roasted potatoes and marinated shiitake mushrooms.
Stuffed Sorrentinos
Sorrentinos are a round stuffed pasta from Argentina. Fill them with meaty oyster mushrooms and season them with fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary.
Vegan Beef Wellington
For a vegan twist on the classic beef Wellington, use mushrooms as a vegetable-based centerpiece.
Garlic Mushroom Tacos
Use chanterelle mushrooms in these tacos due to their particularly chewy texture.
Taiwanese Sticky Rice
Make a Taiwanese-inspired dish with glutinous rice mixed with dried mushrooms, dried shrimp or scallops, and Chinese dried sausage.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
Blend any type of mushroom into a creamy soup.
Chicken Cacciatore
A classic Italian dish, chicken cacciatore features mushrooms alongside chicken.
Shiitake Po' Boys
A New Orleans classic, po' boys can be made with shiitake mushrooms as a vegetarian alternative.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, mushrooms are real. They are a type of fungus that grows in a variety of colours and sizes.
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are wild or cultivated mushrooms that contain psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychoactive and hallucinogenic compound. They are often consumed for recreational purposes and can induce hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and an inability to discern fantasy from reality.
Magic mushrooms are not a harmless or legal high. They are considered a Schedule I drug in the United States, indicating a high potential for misuse and no currently accepted medical use in treatment. While it is difficult to overdose on psilocybin mushrooms, consuming large doses can lead to fatal events related to emotional distress and trip-induced psychosis.
Mushrooms are a rich, low-calorie source of fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can help to improve immune health, reduce blood pressure, and may even lessen the risk of developing serious health conditions such as Alzheimer's, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
