Mushrooms and fungi, what is the difference?

Let’s be honest: many times we use words without knowing exactly what they mean. For example, we talk about mushrooms and fungi interchangeably, without having the exact certainty of what we are saying. Although we use them as synonyms, these terms refer to different things. In this entry, we explain the main differences between a mushroom and a fungus. Fungus or mushroom?Although we could study the fungi kingdom in more depth to understand the differences between fungus and mushroom, we don’t want to get into complicated details. So we’ll put it as simply as possible: a fungus would be equivalent to a tree, while a mushroom would be the fruit of that tree. It’s that simple. Fungi grow underground and only come to the surface, in the form of a mushroom, when there is a decrease in environmental temperature. Let’s say, then, that mushrooms are a natural response of the fungus to environmental stimuli. The confusion between these two terms arises precisely here: when we say we are eating fungi, what we are actually consuming is a part of the fungus called a mushroom. What we commonly know as a champignon (cap and stem) is the fruit of the fungus that is found below the surface. Is it good to eat mushrooms?Once we have clarified the confusion between both terms, we can delve deeper into the characteristics and beneficial properties of these foods. Mushrooms are a highly nutritious type of food, as they provide minerals like calcium, potassium, zinc, iron, as well as some vitamins such as A, C, D, and some others from the B complex. Another important characteristic is that mushrooms contain no fats, but they are high in proteins and fiber. According to the Spanish Nutrition Foundation, in 100 grams of mushrooms, there are only 25 kilocalories, 1.8 g of protein, 4 g of carbohydrates, 2.5 g of fiber, and no cholesterol. How is it best to prepare mushrooms?It has been proven that by frying or boiling different types of mushrooms, they lose proteins and some antioxidants. To retain most of the nutrients present in mushrooms, it is best to grill them with a little oil. Another healthy option for cooking mushrooms is to do it in the microwave. This method allows you to reduce cooking time and use the least amount of water possible. In this way, you preserve a good portion of the antioxidants, as they do not dissolve in water (or oil) nor are they lost during a long cooking process.What dishes can I cook with mushrooms?Mushrooms al PibilDelicious mushroom tacosPasta in Creamy Sauce with MushroomsMushroom Cream with Almonds