Emily Johnson
Mushrooms are a unique kingdom of fungi that are neither plants nor animals. They are a great addition to your cooking and can be used for medicinal purposes. While all edible mushrooms are healthy, some are better known for their impressive nutrition profiles and positive effects on health. For example, the Lion's Mane mushroom is used to promote brain health and nerve function, while the Shiitake mushroom is packed with choline, making it a great choice for pregnant and breastfeeding people. Other healthy mushrooms include Chaga, Reishi, and Turkey Tail. Mushrooms can be used in coffee as well, with brands like Shroomi and North Spore offering mushroom coffee products.
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What You'll Learn
Health benefits of mushrooms
Mushrooms are neither plants nor animals; they belong to a unique kingdom of fungi. They have been valued for their health benefits for centuries, especially in China and Japan. They are rich in disease-fighting nutrients, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids. They are also low in calories, cholesterol, and fat, while being high in protein and fibre.
Some of the best mushrooms for human health include Chaga, Lion's Mane, Reishi, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, Cordyceps, and Maitake. Chaga, also known as "the king of medicinal mushrooms", is rich in antioxidants and boosts immunity, brain health, and liver health. Lion's Mane, also known as "the mushroom for the mind", has been valued for millennia for its ability to support health and longevity, calm the mind, aid meditation, and improve memory. It also contains compounds that may help induce nerve growth factor synthesis in nerve cells. Reishi is an adaptogenic mushroom that aids sleep and acts as an immunomodulator. Turkey Tail boosts immune system function by stimulating cytokine production and increasing natural killer cells.
Oyster mushrooms are low in calories and carbohydrates but high in B vitamins, minerals like potassium, and antioxidants. Shiitake mushrooms are packed with choline, a nutrient in high demand during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Maitake mushrooms are a rich source of B vitamins and minerals like copper, which are necessary for energy production and red blood cell production. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and may support cardiovascular health.
Mushrooms can be incorporated into soups, risottos, casseroles, and meat dishes to add a savoury flavour and boost their nutritional value.
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Mushrooms for cooking
Mushrooms are prized for their versatility and meat-like texture, and they are a popular ingredient worldwide. They can be cooked in a variety of ways and are suitable for use in many dishes. Here are some of the best mushrooms for cooking:
Cremini/Button Mushrooms
Cremini mushrooms, also known as button mushrooms, are the most common variety found in grocery stores. They have a mild flavour and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are a great all-purpose mushroom and can be used in salads, soups, sautéed dishes, grilled items, and more.
Portobello Mushrooms
Portobellos are the mature version of the button mushroom species. They have a darker colour, a more earthy flavour, and a meatier texture. Portobellos are perfect for vegetarian entrées, grilling, and stuffing. Their large, flat caps also make them a great low-carb bread substitute.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Native to East Asia, shiitake mushrooms have a distinct umami flavour and a meaty texture. They are commonly sold dried and simply need to be soaked in hot water before cooking. They are excellent in soups, stir-fries, pasta dishes, and roasted snacks.
Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms have a delicate, complex flavour with a hint of sweetness. They are quick to cook and are very versatile. They can be eaten raw or cooked and are commonly used in Asian dishes such as soups, sauces, and stir-fries.
Maitake Mushrooms
Also known as "hen of the woods," maitake mushrooms have an earthy, peppery flavour and a meaty texture. They are versatile and can be cooked whole or broken into smaller pieces. They are often used in Asian dishes and are renowned for their nutritional benefits.
Chanterelle Mushrooms
Chanterelles are a delicacy due to their high price and difficulty in cultivation. They have a golden colour, an earthy flavour, and a fruity scent. Chanterelles are commonly used in European cuisines and are best cooked with fat, such as butter or cream, to draw out their rich flavour.
Enoki Mushrooms
Enoki mushrooms are tiny, with long stems and small caps. They are commonly used in Japanese, Korean, and Chinese cuisines. They can be eaten raw or cooked and have a chewy texture and mild flavour.
Truffles
Truffles are a high-end delicacy with a delicate flavour. They are typically shaved over pasta or other dishes rather than cooked, as cooking can ruin their subtle taste.
Storage and Safety
Mushrooms should be stored in a paper bag in the fridge to extend their shelf life. They should be kept at cold temperatures between 32-40°F to prevent spoilage. Some varieties, such as morels and chicken of the woods, should not be eaten raw as they can be toxic.
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Types of mushrooms
Mushrooms are a unique kingdom of fungi that offer a wide range of culinary and health benefits. They are a rich source of nutrients, antioxidants, and protein, making them a popular ingredient in various dishes and a favourite among health enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular types of mushrooms:
Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus species) are one of the most widely cultivated edible mushrooms. They have an oyster-like shape, a mild umami flavour, and a meaty texture. They are highly nutritious and provide health benefits such as reducing blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which may help protect against heart disease. Oyster mushrooms are versatile and can be used in recipes like pasta, soups, and meat dishes. They are also commonly foraged by mushroom hunters as they grow in forests worldwide.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) are native to East Asia and have been used for culinary and medicinal purposes for thousands of years. They have an earthy, rich taste and a meaty texture. Shiitake mushrooms are an excellent source of nutrients such as choline, copper, selenium, and zinc. They are known to be particularly beneficial for pregnant and breastfeeding people due to their high choline content. Additionally, they possess immune-supportive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Maitake Mushrooms
Maitake mushrooms, also known as hen-of-the-woods, are native to China but also grow in other parts of the world, such as North American forests. These mushrooms can reach impressive sizes, sometimes weighing up to 50 pounds. Maitake mushrooms have a rich, savoury flavour and a meaty texture that pairs well with vegetable, poultry, and meat dishes. They are highly nutritious, providing B vitamins, folate, niacin, riboflavin, and minerals like copper. Maitake mushrooms are believed to have various health benefits, including anticancer, immune-supporting, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Lion's Mane Mushrooms
Lion's Mane mushrooms, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceum, are visually distinctive with their long, cascading shaggy spines. They grow on the trunks of hardwood trees in Northern forests. Lion's Mane mushrooms have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for their digestive, energy-boosting, and water regulation properties. They are also believed to improve concentration and are used as a tonic for stress-related disorders. Additionally, research suggests that Lion's Mane mushrooms may support healthy brain function and nerve tissue growth.
Chaga Mushrooms
Chaga mushrooms, often referred to as "the king of medicinal mushrooms," are known for their impressive health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and are believed to boost immunity, enhance brain and liver health, and potentially increase lifespan. Chaga mushrooms are not true mushrooms but are masses of mycelia (sclerotium). They are widely used in supplements and are believed to support overall health and well-being.
These are just a few examples of the diverse types of mushrooms available, each with its unique characteristics, flavours, and health benefits. Mushrooms are a versatile and nutritious addition to any dish and can also provide a range of health advantages when consumed regularly.
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Mushrooms for medicinal purposes
Medicinal mushrooms have been used in Eastern medicine for thousands of years and they are now gaining popularity in the West. They are neither plants nor animals but belong to a unique kingdom of fungi. Mushrooms are a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and they are low in calories, cholesterol, and fat. They are also packed with antioxidants, which can help prevent or slow down cellular damage and protect against allergies, heart disease, infections, inflammatory diseases, high blood pressure, and cancer.
Some of the best medicinal mushrooms include Chaga, Lion's Mane, Reishi, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, Cordyceps, and Maitake. Chaga, also known as "the king of medicinal mushrooms," is rich in antioxidants and boosts immunity, brain health, and liver health. Lion's Mane, or "the mushroom for the mind," is known for its role in promoting brain health and nerve function. It contains compounds such as beta-glucans, which have immune-boosting and brain-protective properties. Reishi, or "the mushroom for immortality," boosts immunity, promotes restful sleep, fights fatigue, and reduces stress. Turkey Tail, or "the mushroom of several colors," is another popular medicinal mushroom that boosts immunity and is said to fight cancer cells. Shiitake, "the fragrant mushroom," is known for its delicious flavor and ability to reduce inflammation, boost liver function, heart health, and immunity. Cordyceps, or "the caterpillar mushroom," increases energy production inside the cells, and Maitake is known to have high amounts of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant.
Medicinal mushrooms can be consumed in various forms, such as boiled, fried, roasted, soups, tinctures, teas, and mushroom powder, which can be added to recipes. However, it is important to note that the research on the benefits of medicinal mushrooms is still ongoing, and there are insufficient clinical trials to support all the health claims. While they can be beneficial for health, they should not replace prescribed medications. It is always recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before incorporating medicinal mushrooms into your diet.
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Mushrooms for skincare
Mushrooms have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries to improve health, maintain vitality, and preserve a youthful appearance. In recent years, the beauty industry has seen a "shroom boom", with searches for "mushroom benefits" increasing by 120% in the past year, according to Google Trends.
Mushrooms are rich in vitamin D, protein, and antioxidants, making them an excellent ingredient for skincare products. They contain beta-glucan, a fiber that improves various skin conditions and repairs the skin's natural barrier. Kojic acid, a chemical produced by mushrooms, reduces the effects of hyperpigmentation and melasma. Mushrooms are also known to be excellent natural moisturizing agents, with the ability to retain nearly 500 times their weight in water.
Some of the most commonly used mushrooms in skincare include reishi, tremella, shiitake, cordyceps, coprinus, chaga, and trametes versicolor. Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma Lingzhi, have anti-inflammatory properties, help soothe and calm the skin, and exhibit anti-ageing benefits. Tremella mushrooms, also known as snow mushrooms, are rich in moisturizing polysaccharides, providing long-lasting hydration suitable for all skin types. Chaga mushrooms, found on birch trees, contain antioxidants and offer brightening benefits, helping to block the production of dark spots on the skin.
Shroom Skincare is a popular brand that offers a range of mushroom-infused products, including serums and moisturizers. Their formulas contain a blend of mushrooms, such as maitake, reishi, chaga, and cordyceps sinensis, along with vitamins and natural ingredients, to provide skin-brightening and rejuvenating effects.
Overall, the use of mushrooms in skincare offers enhanced moisturizing, soothing, and brightening benefits, making them a valuable addition to your skincare routine.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many edible mushrooms that are great for cooking, including white button mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, and shiitake mushrooms. White button mushrooms are the most common type and are good all-rounders, whereas oyster and shiitake mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and nutrients.
Mushrooms are considered superfoods due to their varied and uniquely adaptive health benefits. Chaga, lion's mane, reishi, turkey tail, cordyceps, and maitake are some of the mushrooms considered best for human health.
Mushrooms are a rich source of vitamin D, protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Lion's mane, maitake, and shiitake mushrooms are considered some of the healthiest mushrooms due to their positive effects on brain function, nerve generation, immune health, and cardiovascular health.
