Exotic Mushrooms

About
Fungus, although an unappetizing botanical term, actually describes what a mushroom is: a plant that has no stems, seeds or flowers but propagates through its spores. Mushrooms generally need dark, moist areas to grow so they are often cultivated in darkness or in caves.

Varieties
Enoki
Fragile, flower-like enoki grows in small clusters. Characterized by long slender stems which resemble match sticks with tiny caps. The mushrooms are white in color. The flavor is mild, with a slightly crunchy texture.

Oyster
So-named for their soft grey-white color and oyster shell shape. Oyster mushrooms are firm in texture with a mild taste.

Shiitake
Originally grown on oak logs in the Orient. Shiitakes are umbrella-shaped and fleshy with a fresh woodsy scent and rich mushroom flavor. The caps stay firm when cooked. Discard stems if tough.

Woodear
Mild with a woodsy mushroom flavor and chewy texture.

White Trumpet
Delicate flavor. A hybrid of Oyster mushrooms. Not to be confused with Black Trumpet, which has a much bolder flavor.

Lobster
Firm texture. Takes its name from the red color. Great on the grill.

Black Trumpet
Perfumed, smoky fragrance, bold flavor and delicate texture.

Hedgehog Firm mushroom with delicate flavor.

Chanterelle
Many colors. Lighter ones often described as fruity. Darker colors can have more pronounced peppery flavor. Firm texture.

Morel
Earthy with a smokey flavor and meaty texture. Little crevices in a honeycombed cap absorb liquids. Often used with cream sauces.

Availability
Mostly year-round.

Nutrition Information:
• Fat, sodium and cholesterol free
• Low in calories
• High in riboflavin
• Good source of niacin
For complete nutritional information, click here.

Additional Information
• Why Eat It - Selection - Storage - Preparation
• From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia