Make Room for Mushrooms on National Day of the Mushroom!

Did you know mushrooms are the only source of Vitamin D in the diet that does not come from animals? When exposed to sunlight, mushrooms can produce significant amounts of vitamin D2. It’s time to make more room for mushrooms because April 16th is National Day of the Mushroom!

Mushrooms are packed with a ton of nutritional benefits and come in many varieties. There are hundreds of varieties, and no two mushrooms are alike. Not only are they tasty, but they have a ton of benefits for your health.

You may be surprised to know that mushrooms are neither fruit nor vegetable, but fungi. They have a rich flavor called “umami,” meaning delicious in Japanese. Mushrooms are often described as savory and meaty in flavor. Their unique flavor makes them perfect for many dishes.

Fungi Facts

Mushrooms are well known for being a good source of Vitamin D, which helps maintain teeth and bone health. They are also packed with many other vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Mushrooms are also rich in:

Antioxidants: Antioxidants help aid in immune support by helping to protect your body from harmful free radicals which can cause disease.

B Vitamins: There are quite a few B-vitamins found in mushrooms including riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. These B vitamins help protect heart health, aid in making hormones, and help maintain red blood cells.

Copper:Copper is a mineral that the body needs to maintain healthy bones and nerves. It aids in making red blood cells and helping them deliver oxygen to the rest of your body.

Potassium: Your body needs adequate levels of this element for everyday functioning. All your muscles, including the heart, rely on potassium for contracting and to operate properly.

4 Fungi Varieties

There are so many mushroom varieties, that it may be hard to find one you don’t like. Check out some of the most popular varieties and ways you can use them.

White Button- A popular variety seen in the produce aisle of your local grocery store. This variety pairs well with most dishes, such as risotto and soup, and helps intensifies their flavors.

Cremini- Also called Baby Bellas and Browns, are similar to white buttons with a deeper, heartier taste. These are perfect in dishes such as stews and sautés.

Portabella- A larger variety, these mushrooms are big in flavor and big in size, which makes them the perfect meat alternative. Try out a portabella “burger” instead of meat.

Shitake- This variety has a deep flavor and is perfect for adding a depth of flavor to a stew or soup.

Creative Ways to Use Mushrooms

Mushrooms can be an excellent addition to your everyday meals. There are a ton of ways to utilize them in the kitchen.

Try out a juicy mushroom burger using a portabella mushroom as the patty.

Cut up your favorite variety to use in a hearty soup.

Add chopped mushrooms to your omelet at breakfast.

Add mushrooms to your stir-fry dish.

Add whole mushrooms to your favorite pasta dish.

Whichever way you like to enjoy mushrooms, you are sure to get all the benefits that come along with them. Next time you are thinking about a new recipe, don’t forget the mushrooms!

Your Turn to Action: What is your favorite mushroom variety? Let me know in the comment section below!