Button Mushrooms Overview
Button Mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) are one of the most common edible mushrooms worldwide, known for their mild flavor and meaty texture. They are white or light brown with a smooth cap and are used in many cuisines due to their versatility.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Antioxidants: Button mushrooms contain selenium, an antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and protect cells.
- Boosts Immune System: They are known to improve immune function due to bioactive compounds.
- Heart Health: Low in fat and sodium, mushrooms help in maintaining a healthy heart.
- Supports Weight Loss: Low in calories and high in water and fiber, making them a good option for weight management.
- Bone Health: Contains vitamin D, which is beneficial for bone health.
Nutritional Value (per 100g)
- Calories: 22 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 3.3g
- Protein: 3.1g
- Fat: 0.3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin D: 0.1 mcg
- Potassium: 318 mg
How to Eat
Button mushrooms can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Raw: Sliced in salads or as a crunchy snack.
- Cooked: Stir-fried, sautéed, grilled, or roasted.
- In Soups and Stews: Adds a savory, umami flavor.
- As a Meat Substitute: Due to their texture, they work well in vegetarian dishes.
Indian Recipes
1. Mushroom Masala
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 200g, sliced
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Tomato: 1, chopped
- Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tsp
- Red chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Coriander powder: 1 tsp
- Oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Heat oil, sauté onions and ginger-garlic paste.
- Add tomatoes and spices, cook until mushy.
- Add mushrooms, cook until tender.
2. Mushroom Biryani
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 200g, sliced
- Basmati rice: 1 cup
- Onion: 1, sliced
- Garlic: 1 tsp, minced
- Biryani masala: 1 tbsp
- Salt: to taste
- Oil: 1 tbsp
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic, add biryani masala and mushrooms.
- Add rice, water, and cook until fluffy.
3. Mushroom Korma
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 200g
- Coconut milk: 1/2 cup
- Green chili: 1, chopped
- Coriander powder: 1 tsp
- Oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté mushrooms, add spices.
- Pour in coconut milk, simmer until thick.
4. Mushroom Pakoras
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 10, halved
- Gram flour: 1/2 cup
- Salt: to taste
- Red chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Oil: for frying
Instructions:
- Make a batter with flour, salt, and spices.
- Coat mushrooms, fry until golden.
5. Mushroom Matar (Peas) Curry
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 200g
- Green peas: 1/2 cup
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Tomato: 1, chopped
- Garam masala: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onion, add tomatoes and spices.
- Add mushrooms and peas, cook until tender.
Non-Indian Recipes
1. Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 200g
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions:
- Melt butter, add garlic.
- Sauté mushrooms, season, garnish with parsley.
2. Mushroom Soup
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 200g, sliced
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Vegetable broth: 2 cups
- Cream: 1/4 cup
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic, add mushrooms and broth.
- Blend until smooth, stir in cream.
3. Grilled Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 10, whole
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Thyme: 1/2 tsp
Instructions:
- Toss mushrooms in oil, salt, and thyme.
- Grill until tender.
4. Mushroom Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 150g, sliced
- Fettuccine: 1 cup
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Cream: 1/4 cup
- Parmesan: 2 tbsp, grated
Instructions:
- Sauté garlic, add mushrooms and cream.
- Add pasta, top with Parmesan.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- Button mushrooms: 10, stems removed
- Cream cheese: 1/4 cup
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Bread crumbs: 2 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions:
- Mix filling ingredients, stuff into mushrooms.
- Bake until golden.
Button mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes, both traditional and modern. Enjoy experimenting with them in your cooking!