Emma Wilson
There are about 10,000 types of mushrooms worldwide, and they are not all edible. The common mushroom, or Agaricus bisporus, is one of the most commonly and widely consumed mushrooms in the world. It is cultivated in more than 70 countries. The common mushroom has two colour states while immature – white and brown – both of which have various names, with additional names for the mature state, such as chestnut, portobello, portabellini, button, champignon de Paris, and cremini.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common name | Regular mushrooms are commonly known as "button mushrooms" or "white mushrooms" |
| Scientific name | Agaricus bisporus |
| Appearance | Small to medium-sized, white or brown |
| Texture | Firm, meaty |
| Taste | Earthy, nutty |
| Health benefits | Good source of vitamin D, fibre, prebiotics, B vitamins, phosphorus, and potassium |
| Other names | Cremini, baby bella, champignon de Paris, cultivated mushroom, common mushroom |
| Similar-looking mushrooms | Entoloma sinuatum, Agaricus xanthodermus |
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What You'll Learn
- Button mushrooms, also called baby or white mushrooms, are the most common variety
- Cremini mushrooms are a brown variation of the button mushroom species
- Chanterelle mushrooms have a distinctive bright yellow colour and a sweet, peppery flavour
- Black trumpets, sometimes called black chanterelles, have a rich, smoky flavour
- Lion's Mane mushrooms have a shaggy appearance and purported health benefits
Button mushrooms, also called baby or white mushrooms, are the most common variety
Button mushrooms are a type of Agaricus bisporus, which was first scientifically described in 1707 by French botanist Joseph Pitton de Tournefort. The white variety was discovered in 1925 at the Keystone Mushroom Farm in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. They are cultivated by transplanting mushroom mycelia, which leads to the propagation of more mushrooms. Modern commercial varieties are grown from cultures of mutant individuals, similar to the development of navel oranges and Red Delicious apples.
Button mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. They also contain dietary minerals like phosphorus and potassium. In terms of texture, they are meatier than oyster mushrooms and can be used as a substitute for meat in vegetarian or vegan dishes. They are often sliced and used as a topping on pizzas, in spaghetti sauces, and in various other recipes.
While button mushrooms are the most common, there are other varieties within the same species, Agaricus bisporus. These include cremini mushrooms, which are brown, and chestnut mushrooms, which are a darker shade of brown. Cremini mushrooms are sometimes referred to as crimini or baby bella mushrooms and are essentially just older white button mushrooms that have turned brown with age. Chestnut mushrooms are considered interchangeable with white button mushrooms in recipes, although some cooks argue that they have superior flavour and texture.
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Cremini mushrooms are a brown variation of the button mushroom species
Cremini mushrooms, also spelt 'crimini', are a brown variation of the white button mushroom species. They are part of the Agaricus bisporus species, which also includes portobello mushrooms. Cremini mushrooms are essentially just older white button mushrooms, which turn brown with age and develop a stronger flavour. They are also known as "baby bella mushrooms", "chestnut mushrooms", "Italian brown mushrooms", "Roman brown mushrooms", and "Swiss brown mushrooms". Cremini mushrooms have a slightly firmer texture and a more earthy flavour than their younger white counterparts. They are frequently used in stews and soups, as they hold up better in liquid. Cremini mushrooms are also suitable for sautéed stir-fries and can be used raw or cooked.
White button mushrooms are one of the most popular types of mushrooms to eat and are often found in grocery stores. They are mild in taste and tender in texture, which means they are often combined with other strong spices or mushroom species in recipes. They are also cultivated for their white colour and soft texture.
Cremini mushrooms are native to moist, grassy areas with damp soil rich in nitrogen and grassy conditions, such as cow pastures. They can be cultivated at home by mixing compost with manure and keeping the soil moist and warm, at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Both button and cremini mushrooms are delicious and versatile, and can add wonderful flavour and texture to many different recipes.
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Chanterelle mushrooms have a distinctive bright yellow colour and a sweet, peppery flavour
Regular mushrooms, also known as button mushrooms, are one of the most common types of mushrooms. They are widely available in grocery stores and are often used as a topping on pizzas and in spaghetti sauces. However, there are numerous other varieties of mushrooms, each with its own distinct characteristics.
Chanterelle mushrooms, for instance, have a distinctive bright yellow colour and a sweet, peppery flavour. They are also known as \"golden chanterelles\" and are considered a culinary delicacy. Chanterelles are prized for their rich flavour and unique aroma, which can be fruity or earthy. They are commonly found in European and North American cuisines and are highly sought-after by chefs.
The distinctive egg-yellow or bright orange colour of chanterelle mushrooms makes them stand out in the woods. They are easily identifiable by their funnel-shaped caps and false gills or veins under the cap. Chanterelles typically grow singularly on the forest floor, in association with specific tree types.
The name "chanterelle" originates from the Greek word "kantharos," meaning "tankard" or "cup," referring to their shape. Their German name, "Pfifferling," refers to their peppery taste. Chanterelles have a long history, with records of their consumption dating back to the 16th century. However, they gained widespread recognition in the 18th century through French cuisine, becoming a favourite among nobility.
Chanterelle mushrooms are not only delicious but also nutritious. They are rich in B vitamins, niacin, pantothenic acid, iron, and riboflavin. When exposed to sunlight, they produce a significant amount of vitamin D2. Chanterelles are versatile in the kitchen and can be sautéed, pickled, frozen, or dried. They pair well with eggs, sweet corn, and creamy sauces.
It is important to distinguish chanterelle mushrooms from their poisonous false species, such as the false chanterelle (Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca) and jack-o'-lantern mushrooms. Proper identification is crucial to avoid any unpleasant gastrointestinal issues associated with ingesting the wrong variety.
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Black trumpets, sometimes called black chanterelles, have a rich, smoky flavour
Regular mushrooms, also known as button mushrooms, are one of the most common types of mushrooms. They are usually white, but can also be brown, and are often sliced and used as toppings on pizzas or in spaghetti sauces.
Now, black trumpets, sometimes called black chanterelles, are a different type of mushroom altogether. They are small, gourmet edible mushrooms, known for their rich, smoky flavour and sought-after in the culinary world. They are tubular when young and mature into a trumpet or funnel shape, with a veiny, wrinkled appearance. They are found in the summer in the eastern US and related species can be found throughout the year across North America and Europe. Black trumpets grow in hardwood forests, especially near oak and beech trees, and are often found in mossy areas.
Black trumpets are prized for their culinary versatility and can be used to enhance broths, sauces, soups, and dishes with their unique flavour. They pair well with beef or lamb and can also be dried and ground into a spice to add complexity to vegetables, meats, fish, eggs, and more.
Black trumpets are a good option for beginners to identify when mushroom foraging as there are no poisonous lookalikes. However, they can be quite challenging to find due to their small size and dark colour, making them hard to spot on the forest floor.
If you're looking to cook with black trumpets, they can be caramelized and added to pasta or sautéed and added to soups or stews. They hold their flavour well and can be dried for later use.
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Lion's Mane mushrooms have a shaggy appearance and purported health benefits
Regular mushrooms, also known as button mushrooms, are one of the most common types of mushrooms available in grocery stores. They are also called baby mushrooms or white mushrooms and are often sliced and used as toppings on pizzas or in spaghetti sauces.
Now, let's focus on Lion's Mane mushrooms, which have a shaggy appearance and purported health benefits.
Appearance and Names
Lion's Mane mushrooms, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, have a distinct shaggy or hairy appearance. They are large, white mushrooms with long spines or filaments that resemble a lion's mane, giving them their name. They are also called monkey head, bearded hedgehog, pom pom mushrooms, and hou tou gu or yamabushitake in Asian countries.
Culinary Uses
Lion's Mane mushrooms are edible and have a mild, sweet flavor, sometimes likened to seafood, such as lobster or crab meat. They can be consumed raw, dried, or cooked. When cooking, it is recommended to prepare them until the outer layer is crispy, as the taste can be bitter otherwise. They are versatile in cooking methods, including marinating, roasting, or sautéing.
Health Benefits and Uses
Lion's Mane mushrooms are valued for their potential health benefits and are used in traditional Chinese medicine and Native American healing practices. They are available as supplements in capsule, liquid, powder, and gummy forms, which are consumed for their purported health benefits.
The purported health benefits of Lion's Mane mushrooms include:
- Brain Health: They are sometimes called the "smart mushroom" due to their potential brain health benefits. Studies suggest they may stimulate the growth of brain cells and improve cognitive function, memory, and focus. Animal studies indicate potential protection against Alzheimer's disease and improved recovery from traumatic brain injuries.
- Mental Health: Extracts from Lion's Mane mushrooms have shown potential in reducing symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression in animal studies. They may help regulate mood by influencing dopamine and nerve growth factor (NGF) levels.
- Immune System: Lion's Mane mushrooms are believed to have immune-boosting properties, reducing inflammation and preventing oxidation in the body. They may also promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which strengthens the immune system.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: They exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in managing various inflammatory conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune diseases.
- Heart Health: Lion's Mane mushrooms are purported to have cardiovascular benefits, although more research is needed to fully understand their effects on heart health.
While these health benefits are promising, it is important to note that many of the studies have been conducted on animals or in test tubes, and more comprehensive human studies are required to confirm these potential benefits.
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Frequently asked questions
Regular mushrooms, or Agaricus bisporus, are cultivated in more than 70 countries and are one of the most commonly and widely consumed mushrooms in the world. They are also known as white mushrooms, baby mushrooms, or button mushrooms.
Regular mushrooms have two colour states while immature – white and brown. They have a pale grey-brown cap with broad, flat scales on a paler background, fading towards the edges. The caps are initially hemispherical, flattening out with maturity, typically measuring 5–10 centimetres (2–4 inches) in diameter.
Regular mushrooms are native to grasslands in Eurasia and North America and can be found in fields and grassy areas following rain, from late spring to autumn. They are almost guaranteed to be found in grocery stores.
Regular mushrooms are very versatile and can be eaten raw in salads or fried, roasted, grilled, or stuffed. They can be used in sauces, stuffings, stews, casseroles, and pies.
