FoodMushrooms transform from gourmet rarity to everyday essential

Mushrooms transform from gourmet rarity to everyday essential

Mushrooms - tasty and valuable, though still underrated
Mushrooms - tasty and valuable, though still underrated
Images source: © Pixabay
Ewa Sas

19 September 2024 19:19

Once exclusively gracing the tables of the elite, mushrooms are now affordable and available year-round. No wonder they have won the hearts of chefs and home cooking enthusiasts.

The growing popularity of plant-based diets favours mushrooms, which have a chance to become a star in every kitchen. Changing culinary habits doesn't necessarily mean completely excluding meat from your diet but rather focusing on valuable products like vegetables, fruits, and mushrooms. You can conjure truly royal dishes from mushrooms with creativity and culinary imagination.

Mushrooms - nutritional values and flavour

Mushrooms have a unique taste that attracts both meat lovers and vegetarians. Their crunchiness, nutty-citrus aroma, and umami flavour make them an ideal meat substitute in many dishes. Additionally, the presence of beta-glucan supports the circulatory system, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes gut health.

Mushrooms are low in calories and rich in protein, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. They are also a source of B vitamins, vitamin D, and minerals such as selenium, potassium, and copper. Consuming mushrooms supports the immune system, bone health, and skin condition.
Relatively little known are the health benefits of consuming mushrooms - we mainly associate them as a meat additive - meanwhile, it turns out that thanks to their aroma, intense flavour, pleasant texture, and low calorie count (just about 46 calories per 100g), they can be a significant element of a balanced diet. Thinly sliced pieces thrown into soup at the end give a light, nutty and fresh aroma, while thicker slices, heavily fried in hot fat to a beautiful golden colour, give a different impression.