Mushrooms have long been revered for their medicinal properties.
In fact, ancient Greek warriors used mushrooms to enhance their strength during battle, according to
Today mushrooms are a common ingredient in many cuisines and are often featured in dishes like pasta, pizza, stir-fries, and soups.
Although they’re sometimes classified as a vegetable, mushrooms are actually a type of fungus. There are over 2,000 edible varieties of mushrooms, including:
In recent years, mushrooms have been studied for their many potential health benefits, including their ability to:
Mushrooms are highly nutritious, packing a good amount of fiber, riboflavin, niacin, and selenium into each serving.
They’re also one of the few plant-based food sources of vitamin D, an important micronutrient that plays a key role in immune function.
What’s more, many types of mushrooms have been studied specifically for their medicinal properties.
In particular, Chaga mushrooms have been shown to have powerful antimicrobial properties and are rich in antioxidants like gallic acid and protocatechuic acid, according to a 2017 review.
Additionally, one
According to a
Even more impressive, one small
With so many different types of mushrooms out there, you have nearly endless possibilities when it comes to using this incredible ingredient. Here are a few recipe ideas to help you get started.
Whether you have a case of the sniffles or are looking for a cozy treat to keep you warm through winter, there are few things as soothing as a cup of homemade hot chocolate.
This recipe gives hot chocolate an immunity-boosting upgrade by using medicinal mushroom powder along with coconut milk, cacao powder, and honey to kick up the flavor.
Ingredients
Directions
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 8-10
Because this mushroom soup is simple, satisfying, and easy to prepare, it can be an excellent option for when you’re not feeling your best.
Try experimenting with different types of mushrooms or swapping in other greens and veggies to tailor this recipe to your taste buds.
Ingredients
Directions
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 8-10
One of the easiest ways to up your intake of mushrooms is to swap it in for meat in your favorite meals.
This meat-free shiitake bacon is crisp, savory, and delicious — a great addition to sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.
Start to finish:
Serves:
Ingredients
Directions
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 3-4
Mushrooms are a type of fungus well studied for their many medicinal properties.
There are over 2,000 edible mushrooms, many of which have been shown to have antiviral, antimicrobial, and immunity-boosting benefits.
From hot beverages to soups, pastas, pizzas, and sandwiches, there are also endless ways to take advantage of the many benefits of mushrooms.
For more great tips on using super ingredients, check out:
Last medically reviewed on September 13, 2021
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