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Mushrooms: A Fascinating Delicacy

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They provide vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates, so their consumption is recommended and beneficial.

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For many years, fungi were also considered within the same kingdom of plants.

As both were obtained from the earth, it was propitious for them to be classified in the same kingdom; however, we now know that they are different.  

The main distinction is that plants have chlorophyll. As we all know, it helps in the photosynthesis process. Plants absorb sunlight, water, and Carbon Dioxide CO₂ to make their own food.

However, fungi do not have chlorophyll; Besides that they lack their characteristic green color, they are not capable of producing their food, they obtain it as parasites of their hosts; They take dead matter, decompose it, and transform it into food.

These organisms are fascinating. Their sexual reproduction occurs through the production of spores.

The role of fungi is essential for the balance of ecosystems as they regulate the populations of plants, animals and insects.

According to data from the National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO), around 2,135 species and 95 sub-species are known in our country. Although some are poisonous, most are edible.

It is since pre-Hispanic times that there is knowledge of its consumption; for pre-Columbian cultures they played an important role in food and rituals. During the conquest, they were demonized and their use was prohibited. It was until more recent times that they were rediscovered and their structure and benefits began to be studied.

The benefit of mushrooms to your health.

Mushrooms provide vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates, so their consumption is recommended and beneficial. They are included in diets low in calories and fat, so they are effective in taking care of health without depriving themselves of the deliciousness of food.

Edible mushrooms or mushrooms include different species, different in taste, shape and size. Among the most common in our country are mushrooms, portobellos, senderillas, yellow trumpet and trumpet of the dead, gírgolas and, of course, huitlacoche.

They are very versatile when it comes to cooking as they can be eaten raw, fried, cooked, grilled, grilled; provide vitamin D, reinforce the immune system, improve nutrition and can help prevent and treat certain diseases such as asthma, arthritis or kidney failure.

But it is recommended to consume mushrooms grown in a organic; Its absorbent characteristic means that sometimes there is the presence of heavy metals in its composition. Growing your own mushrooms at home is the best option, it represents a benefit for health and the economy.

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Mushroom Mushroom

Types of Mushrooms in World Cuisine: Explore Their Unique Flavor

1.**Mushrooms**: This versatile and widely used mushroom is found in several cuisines around the world. They are often used in stews, stir-fries, and pizzas. An emblematic example of its use is in the classic mushroom soup.

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shiitake mushroom

2.**Shiitake**: Native to Asia, shiitake is known for its meaty texture and umami flavor. It is used in dishes such as stir-fried shiitake with vegetables, and is also part of many dishes in Japanese and Chinese cuisine.

3.**Boletus**: These mushrooms are prized for their earthy flavor and are commonly used in European cuisine. They can be used in risottos, in pasta sauces, as an accompaniment to meats and even in game dishes.

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Porcini Mushroom

4.**Porcini mushrooms**: Another type of boletus mushroom, the porcini is particularly popular in Italian cuisine. It is used in dishes such as pasta with porcini, porcini risotto and in meat sauces.

5.**Chanterelle**: This mushroom with a delicate and sweet flavor is native to Europe, and is mainly found in French cuisine dishes. It is often used in stews, omelettes and as an accompaniment to white meats.

6.**Matsutake**: A highly valued mushroom in Japanese cuisine, matsutake has a distinctive aroma and is used in traditional dishes such as matsutake rice and matsutake soup broth.

7.**Truffle**: Considered a true gastronomic luxury, truffles are fungi that are found buried in the ground. Their incomparable flavor and aroma make them unique. Truffles are used to enhance the flavor of gourmet dishes, such as pastas, risottos, meats and cheeses.

8.**Oyster mushroom**: This mushroom is known for its oyster-like shape and mild flavor. It can be used in dishes such as stir-fries, soups and scrambled eggs. It is also popular in Asian cuisine.

9.**enoki mushroom**: Small and elongated, enoki mushrooms are popular in Chinese and Japanese dishes. They are used in soups, salads and stir-fries.

10.**maitake mushroom**: Known as “the king of mushrooms,” maitake has a tender texture and a mild, sweet flavor. It is used in dishes such as stir-fries, soups and stews. It is also considered a medicinal mushroom in traditional Chinese medicine.

Explore the diversity of flavors and textures that these mushrooms bring to world cuisine, and dare to incorporate them into your favorite dishes to take your culinary creations to the next level. Enjoy!

Last modified: March 21, 2024