Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Wednesday's Helping: Mushrooms

Fungi that we adore

They’re often treated like an ordinary vegetable in cooking recipes. People like their have a rich earthy flavor and firm texture. Edible mushrooms are actually the stems and caps of fungi. They can grow above or below ground since they really don’t require light to grow and thrive. Mushrooms are living organisms that have no roots, leaves, flowers or seeds. Ancient Egyptians thought they were a food item reserved for royalty. It was the French that began collecting mushrooms from caves in the 1800s. They’re Their popularity reached the United States in the late 19th century. Today’s consumers can find white button mushrooms and brown crimini mushrooms at most major supermarkets. These most popular mushrooms are available year-around through many commercial growers. Generally, mushrooms are a good source of healthy nutrients, such as iron, copper, and manganese. Also, vegetarians can look to mushrooms as a great source of protein.

Helpful Hint: This site has a short primer on different types of edible fungi.

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