Magical mushroom varieties

We’ve always found fungi to be rather intriguing and somewhat magical. They don’t grow from a seed, can flourish and grow without sunlight and come in an amazing variety of shapes, sizes and flavours. So, exactly what are these mystical mini mounds that fairies supposedly live under? We’ve got our top six favourite mushies that bring life, flavour and texture into dishes like nothing else can. From mild to bold flavours, there’s a mushroom out there somewhere just waiting to tantalise your tastebuds.

But first, we’re here to give you the lowdown on the secret life of fungi! We often think of mushrooms and being a vegetable – but guess what! Mushrooms are neither a fruit or a veggie and they technically aren’t even considered plants #mindblown Mushrooms are a type of fungi, but not all fungi are mushrooms (and some can even be extremely toxic and deadly to humans). Rather than growing from seeds, mushrooms produce millions of microscopic spores that firm in the ‘gills’ or ‘pores’ underneath the mushrooms cap, making them super magical and truly intriguing.

Button Mushroom
Button mushies are pretty much the most commonly used edible mushroom and are often used in simple dishes such as pizza toppings or omelettes. Mild in flavour, these mushrooms are easily found in supermarkets and are versatile in a huge range of dishes.

Portobello
These are the Mama version of button mushrooms and are much larger with a meatier texture, yet still a mild taste. Commonly used in vegetarian dishes such as stuffed mushrooms or used as vegetarian burger fillings.

Shitake
Shitake mushies are often used in Asian dishes and have a meaty texture with a smoky, earthy flavour when cooked. Be careful though, as some people can have a reaction to uncooked shitakes leaving a ‘whip- like’ rash over the body. Best make sure these mushrooms are cooked through for optimum enjoyment.

Oyster
These mushrooms get their name from their ‘oyster’ like appearance – but don’t worry, they taste nothing like the oceanic morsels. These mushrooms have a mild, yet sweet flavour and are commonly used in a number of Asian inspired dishes.

Enoki
These curious looking clusters of little mushrooms are often used in Asian dishes and have unique long stems and tiny caps. They’re a common ingredient in ramen and soups.

Porcini
Commonly known to star in Italian dishes, these mushrooms and have a creamy and slightly nutty flavour. Often, they are dried when store brought and then soaked in hot water for 10 mins or so until soft and ready to cook! Try them in your next pasta dish for a full bodied flavoursome meal.

Chatswood has a huge variety of restaurants that feature incredible mushroom dishes, from Bu-Gak and Mushroom XO sauce at General Chao to sliced button mushrooms in dishes at Pepper Lunch Express, you’ll be sure to find a ‘shroom you’ll fall in love with.