When people hear the word fungi, they automatically think itchy skin infestations. Hard to believe then that fungi could be edible. Mushrooms are some of the most versatile ingredients in cooking – lending to their hearty flavor. The following should give you ideas on the many uses of this wonderful fungi.

Five Types of Edible Mushrooms

While there are hundreds of different types of mushrooms that are edible, there are hundreds more that aren’t. Some are very poisonous and others will just make you feel as though you are dying! If you are not familiar with differences, then it’s best to get your mushrooms from your local grocery store!

When visiting the produce section of a well-stocked supermarket, you will probably see white buttons, portabellas and shiitake. These three are the most popular and widely-cultivated among the mushroom varieties. Because of their unique flavor and accessibility, people use these varieties more than others. Cultivated mushrooms are assured of cleanliness and being poison-free. They are also the most beginner-friendly mainly because of their low cost, adaptable flavor, and wide accessibility.

These are inexpensive because they are so common. Many farms cultivate these by the truckful. The more exotic kinds can go up in price mainly because they cannot be grown commercially but rather found in the wild. A piece of truffle can cost more that your entire kitchen – yes, appliances, sink and all! In 2007, a piece weighing 1.5 Kg. sold at an auction for $330,000. Most truffles range from $1,000 to $5,000 a pound, what drove the price for this record-breaker was its odd shape. Truffles are an acquired taste but many swear by its intense earthy flavor. If you want to try it but you are not willing to spend too much, get yourself a bottle of truffle oil. Sprinkle it onto dishes and salads and find out what the fuss is about.

If you don’t have access to truffles, you should try out the chanterelle. Described as having the essence of apricot, this is one tasty mushroom. Some even likened eating one to eating a fragrant flower. Bigger supermarkets and specialty stores should have these in stock.

Cooking with Mushrooms

The good thing about mushrooms is their versatility. Aside from truffles – that is basically used as a garnish or like a spice – mushrooms can be the main ingredient in a dish because of this versatility. Stuffed mushrooms with cream cheese and crab meat usually appear at cocktail parties while buttons can be seen on almost any pizza. However, mushrooms are not limited to these dishes.

Some of the best recipes involve sauting the mushrooms until they are a darker color. Add in some garlic, onions, and red wine and you’ve got the start of a great side dish or a topping for a fantastic steak. Mushrooms are used in many Italian recipes, such as in pasta sauces. Mushrooms are also a great compliment to egg dishes, such as omelets and quiches.

Preparation and Storage

Before using fresh mushrooms, you should rinse them off quickly in cold water but don’t soak them. They have a tendency to become water-logged rather quickly. Most mushrooms can be stored in your refrigerator, but not in the crisper drawer. If you buy loose fresh mushrooms, it’s best to place them in a paper bag, as this will help absorb some of the moisture. It will help the mushrooms stay fresh longer. If you notice that one mushroom is looking rather bad, take it out immediately, as the rest will spoil quickly.

Mushrooms are a wonderful way of broadening your cooking perspective. There are literally hundreds of varieties to choose from. Go ahead, experiment with one today.