Mushrooms — Nourishment with Fungus

INTRODUCTION

Mushrooms belong to the kingdom Fungi. The presence of chitin and ergosterol is one of the unique features of fungi. Chitin is a structural homopolysaccharide made of N — acetyl D glucosamine molecules. Humans have chitinase like protein or chinitolytic properties which can dissolve chitin. Whereas ergosterol works similar to cholesterol as in mammals. Not all mushrooms are edible. As poisonous types also exists, it is advisable to avoid collecting or tasting unfamiliar mushrooms found in gardens or fields. Some of the common edible mushrooms are

• Button mushrooms
• Oyster mushrooms
• Shiitake

GROWING OYSTER MUSHROOMS

1.Preparation of Straw

This is the first step of mushroom cultivation. The straw is chopped to around 1 to 1.5 inch long to prepare a perfect substrate for mushroom growth. Straw is treated to kill the micro organisms and avoid contamination. If you are trying to grow mushrooms at home, this can be done by boiling the straw in hot water. When the colour of the straw is turned dark, it indicates that the substrate is ready to cultivate.

2.Inoculation

The next step is placing of spawn on the substrate. Spawn can be considered as a seed for plantation but in real terms its a substance treated with mycelium used for mushroom vegetation. Generally wooden trays, plastic trays or plastic bags are used for inoculation but using plastic is the best option to avoid contamination and microbial growth. Important parameters like humidity, temperature, light, moisture and carbon dioxide are monitored and maintained at optimum level.

3.Harvesting

After 1–2 weeks the mushrooms are ready to harvest. Mushrooms are harvested before the caps are completely flattened. Numerous measures and precaution are taken throughout the process of mushroom cultivation, which makes them safe to consume.

HOW TO CLEAN AND STORE MUSHROOMS

Always pick fresh mushrooms for your kitchen. Both the stalk and gills of mushroom are edible and completely depends on your choice whether you like to include them in your recipe or chop them off

Cleaning: Quick wash mushrooms under cold running water to clean the debris. Pat dry with a paper towel. If the stalk is tough, you can trim it before cooking.

Storage: Place the mushrooms in the original packing or in a porous paper bag. Store them in the refrigerator, and they can last upto 1 week. Always remember fresh mushrooms should not be frozen.

RECIPES

1.Mushroom Salad : Salads are always healthy if the ingredients are wisely picked. Mushrooms are moderate sources of protein and fibre, so, adding protein like chicken, egg white and vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, greens can make your salad wholesome.

2. Mushroom Soup: Soups are the delicious way to hydrate yourself. Detox diet and liquid diet are almost incomplete without soups. Try out mushroom soup with the goodness of lemon zest, herbs and lots of pepper for extra nourishment.

3.Mushroom Curry: You can enjoy your mushroom curry with a cup of steamed rice or rotis. When you want to try something which is perfectly cooked and has a blend of spices and condiments you can go with this option. Including ginger, garlic will be an add on.

4.Mushroom Risotto: You can prepare a perfect risotto with barley or even rice. This is another great option when you want to keep your meal simple and fat free.

5.Stuffed Mushroom: Want to try something new for snacking, go with stuffed mushrooms. They are healthy because unlike mushroom croquettes, they are prepared by steaming. You can use stuffing and sauce of your choice to make it more tasty.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Carbohydrates: Mushrooms are gluten free, provide less calories and have trace amounts of sugars, which is why they are perfect for diabetic diet plan.

Sodium: Mushrooms are low in sodium, and can be included in low sodium diet as like for hypertensive patients

Fats: Mushrooms are fat and cholesterol free, which makes mushroom the best choice for people with cardiac disorder or obesity.

Vitamins & Minerals: They are good source of Vitamin D. Also, they have good amount of folate, niacin, and potassium and other vital nutrients which are essential for bone mineralization, muscle growth, renal health and other metabolic activities.

REFERENCES

https://www.sare.org/Learning-Center/SARE-Project-Products/Northeast-SARE-Project-Products/Oyster-Mushroom-Cultivationhttps://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169251/nutrients