Oyster To Shiitake: 7 Varieties Of Mushrooms Found In India
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Mushrooms are a unique veggie. Although technically, it is a fungus and not a vegetable, 90% of its composition is water. This fleshy, spore-bearing fungus has a distinct flavour and is frequently used to make mouthwatering dishes. In India, a variety of mushrooms are available. Among these are Button Mushroom, Oyster Mushroom, Shiitake Mushroom and more. 

Agaricus bisporus is the name of the mushroom in scientific terms. Mushrooms are fungi; they are the fleshy, spore-bearing bodies of fungi that can grow in soil, on the ground, or in any other environment where they can find sustenance. It is the structure that fungi use for reproduction. The term can be used to describe the fungus with a cap, stem, and gills.  

Despite the fact that they can grow anywhere, not all mushrooms are edible. There are more than 2,000 different types of mushrooms recognised worldwide, but only a few specific varieties are suitable for human consumption. In many meals across many different cuisines, mushrooms are either a necessary element or the main ingredient. 

Types Of Mushrooms 

Button Mushrooms: 

This particular species of mushroom is the most popular in India. It is primarily white, although on sometimes has a little brownish hue. It is generally cut up and put as a topping to pizza, noodles, or soups despite having little culinary value. These can be easily found in supermarkets.

Oyster Mushrooms: 

Because of how closely the oyster mushroom resembles an oyster shell, it was given that name. They come in a variety of colours, such as white, pink, and brown, and have a mild, nutty flavour. Oyster mushrooms are widely used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes and stir-fried soups. 

Straw Mushrooms: 

In India, they are equally well-known as "Chinese Mushrooms" and as popular as button mushrooms are. They taste delicious, have a lovely flavour, and are an excellent source of protein and other nutrients. Its cultivation is frequently practised in the Indian states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, etc. 

Shiitake Mushrooms: 

It's a Japanese mushroom. Its name translates to "oak fungus." These mushrooms have a meaty texture and are chewy. There are numerous more names for shiitake mushrooms, including brown oak, black mushroom, Chinese black, black forest, and black winter. 

The mushrooms complement recipes that are simmered and steamed as well as stir-fried veggie meals. They immensely improve the food's flavour. 

Portobello Mushrooms: 

They also go by the name "Cep mushrooms" and resemble enormous button mushrooms, although their flavour is more woody. Despite their 10-inch maximum length, they are often picked at one inch in size and sold dried. They are among the most flavourful mushrooms, making them a common ingredient in cooking, particularly in Italian cuisine. 

Enoki Mushrooms: 

This rare species of mushrooms has a taste that is mild and nearly fruity. They look like tiny white straws with tiny caps on them. Being careful not to overcook them is important since heat may actually tighten them up and make them unpleasant to eat. They may even be consumed raw. They are excellent garnishes for salads and soups due to their crispy texture. 

Cremini Mushrooms: 

These fungi are members of the same species as button mushrooms. They only differ marginally in that they have dark tan patches on top and have developed a coffee-coloured thin covering on the crown. However, compared to button mushrooms, these mushrooms have a harder texture and a more rich flavour.