Everything You Need to Know About Mushrooms

The mushrooms and fungi are a true delicacy, as they can be cooked in all kinds of spicy sauces, quesadillas, alambres, and more. On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that it is a very productive, nutritious ingredient, and depending on the type of mushroom, it can even be economical.  According to the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development, mushrooms grow in wooded areas, where they reproduce through spores. Experts mention that “for their development, they need sufficient moisture and light, so the best production of mushrooms and fungi occurs during periods of abundant rain.” So when the rainy season arrives, that is when we can find a greater variety of mushrooms and fungi in markets and street vendors.  So if you want to know everything about mushrooms and fungi, as well as their differences and the many ways you can cook them, at Kiwilimón we provide you with all the information you need, it will make you even more eager to eat a mushroom soup or a skewer with button mushrooms!  You can also read: 3 ways to clean your mushroomsWhat is the difference between mushrooms and fungi? As we published in 2019, “the mushroom would be equivalent to a tree, while a fungus would be the fruit of that tree. Mushrooms grow underground and only appear on the surface in the form of fungi when there is a decrease in environmental temperature.”  Remember that “when we say we are eating mushrooms, what we are actually consuming is a part of the mushroom called fungus. What we commonly know as a button mushroom (cap and stem) is the fruit of the mushroom that is found below the surface.” Besides being very productive and delicious, mushrooms and fungi are also very nutritious, as they contain vitamins A, B, C, D, as well as calcium, potassium, zinc, iron, fiber, and protein.  8 types of mushrooms and fungi If you want to learn more about the most popular types of fungi in Mexico and how to cook them, we have all the information you need.  1. Huitlacoche This Mexican delicacy should not be missing from your table! Known as Mexican caviar or Mexican truffle, this type of mushroom grows on corn during the rainy season, so it is considered a parasite, according to the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development. Experts from the Secretariat of Agriculture point out that huitlacoche has incredible properties, such as “essential amino acids, essential fatty acids, immune stimulants, and antioxidants, low fat content, and high fiber content.” Enjoy huitlacoche in stews, quesadillas, stuffed peppers, Aztec casserole, soups, enchiladas, and more.  2. Common Button Mushroom The common button mushroom is small, white, and has a very subtle flavor, making it perfect to combine with all kinds of ingredients. Best of all, it can be eaten raw or cooked, making it perfect for salads, soups, pizzas, pasta, and stews. 3. Portobello The portobello is another type of mushroom that can easily be found in any store or market. This type of fungus is much larger and when cooked, its flavor resembles that of meat, making it great for pasta, lasagna, and even burgers.  You can also read: Properties and benefits of eating mushrooms4. Cremini Mushroom The cremini is actually a small portobello, as its name changes when it grows. Unlike the common button mushroom, this one is brown, has a more intense flavor, and a firmer texture. You can cook them in stews, soups, salads, pizzas, pasta, and more.  5. Fungi Fungi are well known for their chicken flavor when breaded and fried in oil, making them a good option if you want to stop eating meat. They are also the perfect ingredient for preparing stews, quesadillas, soups, and even mole.  6. ShiitakeThe shiitake is a mushroom of Japanese origin, so in Mexico it is associated with food influenced by the East. Its woody but subtle and delicious flavor makes it perfect for incorporating into soups and stews.  7. Morels This type of fungus is very small and resembles a small honeycomb or prune. Due to its porous texture, it is ideal for preparing sauces, pasta, and soups. Although they are not very accessible in Mexico, be sure to try them if you find them, you will love them! 8. Enoki The enoki mushroom is used in the preparation of food inspired by the East. This variety is very small, white, and can be eaten raw or cooked, making it very crunchy! You can also read: How to cook huitlacoche?Recipes with mushrooms and fungi Now that you know everything about mushrooms and fungi, get to work and prepare these delicious recipes, there is something for every taste!Fried Mushroom QuesadillasChicken Stuffed with Huitlacoche and Oaxaca CheeseMushroom Broth with EpazoteChicken Crepes with Mushroom SauceBroccoli Stuffed Gratinated PortobellosCuaresmeño Peppers Stuffed with HuitlacochePastor Style Mushroom TacosCreamy Mushroom and Spinach LasagnaCreamy Mushroom RiceCaprese Stuffed PortobellosBrown Rice and Quinoa with MushroomsPortobellos Stuffed with Bolognese MeatGorditas Stuffed with Mushrooms in Green SauceBaked Mushroom Alfredo SpaghettiMarinated Chicken with MushroomsMushroom Enchiladas with Chipotle SauceAdobo Mushroom MixioteSweet Potatoes Stuffed with MushroomsMushroom and Vegetable EmpanadasHawaiian Portabella Mushrooms