In recent years, mushrooms have been making a splash in the culinary world, appearing in a variety of consumer packaged goods like coffee, chips, and plant-based jerky. This trend, referred to as “mushroom mania” in a recent report by Fresh Market Thyme, comes as no surprise to registered dietitian Meghan Sedivy, RD, LDN. Sedivy points out that mushrooms offer a plethora of health benefits, including antioxidants like selenium which can help boost the immune system. Mushrooms also provide fiber, protein, and Vitamin D, essential for maintaining strong bones and calcium absorption.
To delve deeper into the world of mushrooms, we interviewed Olivia Roszkowski, a chef-instructor at the Institute of Culinary Education’s New York City campus, specializing in Plant-Based Culinary Arts. Roszkowski identified five main types of mushrooms commonly used in cooking: button, cremini (baby bella), portobello, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms. While these varieties are widely available at grocery stores and farmers markets, Roszkowski recommends exploring local farmer’s markets for gourmet or hyper-local mushroom varieties. Additionally, she suggests checking out the dried mushroom section for a wider selection, particularly of shiitake mushrooms.
Roszkowski provides details on each of the five main types of mushrooms, highlighting their unique characteristics and ideal culinary applications. In addition to these common varieties, she introduces nine additional, rarer mushroom types to expand the culinary possibilities with mushrooms. Despite potential challenges in sourcing and cost, Roszkowski reassures that these lesser-known mushrooms are worth exploring for their rich flavors and unique textures.
From versatile button mushrooms to meaty oyster mushrooms, each variety offers a distinct taste and culinary potential. Whether used in gravies, pasta dishes, or as a topping for protein, mushrooms add depth and umami to a wide range of recipes. Roszkowski also shares cooking tips and creative ideas for incorporating mushrooms into various dishes, from breakfast sandwiches to pasta sauces.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, mushrooms offer endless possibilities for creative and flavorful dishes. With a wide array of varieties to choose from, exploring the diverse world of mushrooms can enhance your culinary repertoire and elevate your cooking to a whole new level of deliciousness.
