4 Mushroom Tips to Remember

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Mushrooms deliver a nutty and earthy flavor to all of your dishes. They are a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a wonderful addition to a healthy diet. Mushrooms contain B vitamins which help break down fats, proteins and carbohydrates in the body. They also contain antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin D. When it comes to cooking them, mushrooms offer a sense of umami, a satisfying taste that mimics the savory flavor of meats. Follow these 4 tips when it comes to shopping, cleaning, cooking and storing your mushrooms.

SHOP: Look for mushrooms that are firm, plump, smooth and dry. Mushrooms that have exposed gills like portabellas have a richer flavor. Closed cap mushrooms such as button mushrooms are much milder.

CLEAN: Mushrooms absorb moisture so avoid letting them stand in water. It’s ok to rinse them quickly and pat them try or wipe them down with a damp towel. If the stems are tough, those can be removed.

COOK: Cook off the excess moisture that mushrooms release then slightly brown them in a pan to bring out their flavor.

STORE: Refrigerate mushrooms in the original packaging or a brown paper bag up to a week. Just remember to make sure they are dry before storing them in the fridge.

For recipes that call for lean ground meat, finely chop your favorite mushrooms and blend them 50/50 with the ground meat for a juicier texture, enhanced flavor and extra nutritional boost!