Food Ingredient of the Week – March 19th
- Tinessa Johnsrud, HHP, CHNC, CWC
- Mar 21, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 2
Crimini Mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus)
FUN FACTS
Mushrooms can be grown year-round and are a great source of protein, vitamins and minerals.
When immature and brown they are called a crimini/cremini mushroom or baby bella.
When even more immature and white they are called a white or button or champignon mushroom.
Are crimini and portobello mushrooms the same?
They are the same type. Portobello are much more mature.
What do mushrooms taste like?
Umami, a savory flavor
Organic or not organic?
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) places Mushrooms #11 on the Clean Fifteen™ Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™ list for 2023
Wash or not wash?
Store-bought mushrooms should be washed except for sliced mushrooms which should have been previously washed. Once washed they must be used immediately.
Raw or cooked?
Cooked. It is easier on your digestive system, and cooking helps release some nutrients and beneficial compounds.
IMPORTANT INFO
Precautions: Never collect your own crimini mushrooms from the field.
Always buy from a good source.
Storage: Store them fresh, unrinsed in. brown paper bag. Do not place in crisper drawer, instead towards the middle of fridge.
Nutritional Benefits: Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc and Iron
1oz of crimini mushrooms/about 2 = approximately 1g of protein
Studies have found that crimini mushrooms “could potentially protect against breast cancer and lung cancer,” as well as “reduce the likelihood of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.”
HOW TO EAT
Mushrooms are a great way to enhance dishes with flavor. Crimini in particular have a meaty texture as well as a mild, earthy and savory flavor.
Mushrooms can be eaten by themselves or sauteed, roasted or baked into a main dish.
Main Dish Recipes
Quick & Easy Side Dish –
Sautée
1. Prepare crimini mushrooms trimming or removing stems
2. Slice if desired
3. Heat olive oil or broth in a nonstick ceramic skillet over medium heat
4. Add white wine, thyme, salt and pepper to taste
5. Stir with a nonmetal spatula or spoon
6. Sautée for 8-10 minutes, or until tender
7. Stir occasionally, liquid should evaporate
Grill
1. Prepare crimini mushrooms trimming or removing stems
2. Rinse and wipe clean with damp cloth
3. Drizzle generously with balsamic vinegar, olive oil and tamari
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper
5. Thread mushrooms onto skewers
6. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat
7. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until tender
FURTHER READING:
Resources for this Blog Article:
Comments