Mushrooms, important in a vegan diet

What do mushrooms contain and why should we eat them?

Most varieties contain 98% of the same substances, the differences being made by the water content, but also by the place where they grow and the supply of natural light. Mushrooms contain fiber, vitamins B1, B2; B3, B5, B6, B9, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium and zinc. They are also rich in water, although at first glance they seem quite dry.

Mushrooms have anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antiseptic and antibacterial effects, being used by healers and healers for thousands of years. Sometimes, even poisonous ones were used in small doses, with effects similar to those of poison administration.

Can mushrooms be a natural medicine?

What benefits do mushrooms have for our health? You will be surprised, but these small vegetables that grow in the darkest places are extremely healthy. Although they do not have chlorophyll like plants and are not very rich in calcium, they have almost all the vitamins and minerals absolutely necessary for our body.

First of all, they have a diuretic role, they are rich in antioxidants and fiber. This formula helps you lose weight, eliminate excess water, detoxify your body, regulate intestinal transit, get rid of constipation or indigestion.

The content of active substances, namely antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, gives mushrooms even an anticancer role. Mushrooms help us fight free radicals, strengthen the immune system, protect us from infections and the spread of tumors.

How do I choose, clean, store and prepare mushrooms?

In general, there are small differences between the varieties of mushrooms in terms of their selection, cleaning, storage and preparation. Some are stronger and more fibrous, others more fleshy, some last longer after harvest, others less. But there are some general rules that can be applied in the first phase regardless of variety. After applying them, you can see if a certain purchased variety needs more special attention.

When buying mushrooms, whether they are already packaged or not, analyze their color. The surface must not have stains, bumps or tears. Then feel the mushrooms and notice their texture. In general, these vegetables have a spongy texture and are quite stiff to the touch. If the mushrooms are too soft, have a pungent odor or are hit, avoid buying them.

At home, the first step is to wash them thoroughly of any dirt. Although the legs are a little harder, you can cook them without finely chopped problems, so our recommendation would be not to cut them. After washing and draining or drying, place the mushrooms in a bowl, which you cover with cling film. Because any vegetable needs to breathe, make a few holes in the foil with a toothpick. Then add the mushrooms to the fridge. If they were fresh when you bought them, they can last a week in the fridge in good condition.

Mushrooms cook easily and quickly, being ideal for a meal on the run. They can be eaten raw, but also cooked, grilled, baked or steamed. You can sauté them with a little onion and a finely chopped tomato, and you have a light, meatless dinner, ready in just 15 minutes.