About: Edible mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of various species of fungi. Mushrooms grow on decaying organic matter such as wood, leaves, or manure and do not require soil or light to grow. There are several varieties of mushrooms. Crimini mushrooms are the brown versions of the common white mushroom and are also known as baby bella, mini bella, or baby portabello mushrooms. Portabello mushrooms, also called portabella mushrooms, are the adult versions of crimini mushrooms and have a very earthy, rich flavor. Shiitake mushrooms, native to East Asia, are eaten both fresh and dry and have a smoky, buttery flavor.

Nutritional Information: Mushrooms are a very good source of a wide range of minerals and vitamins. Crimini mushrooms have higher levels of vitamins and minerals than the common white mushroom. One serving of sliced crimini mushrooms has 21% and 27% of Riboflavin and Selenium, respectively. Mushrooms are considered a very good source of Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Pantothenic Acid, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, Copper, Manganese and Selenium. More

Nutritional Information: crimini mushrooms, portabella mushrooms

Storage: Keep in a loosely closed paper bag in the refrigerator. Cooked mushrooms can be frozen- just sauté them in oil or butter for a few minutes and then place in a container.

Tips: Clean mushrooms using as little water as possible as they absorb water. Most edible mushrooms can be eaten cooked or raw, though Shiitake mushrooms are best cooked. The stems are edible though you may want to remove parts if they are too woody.

Quick Fix: Portabella mushrooms are excellent grilled. Simply brush olive oil on both sides and then grill for about 5 minutes per side.

Recipes: Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Portabellas, Sautéed Shiitake Mushrooms, Shiitake with Angel Hair Pasta, Sauteed Oyster Mushrooms, Roasted Oyster Mushroom and Potato Salad, Sauteed Mushrooms with Caramelized Shallots