While the scientific fact that mushrooms are actually a fungus might sound gross, this unappealing tidbit hasn’t affected the worldview on their succulence. Mushrooms of every variety are widely featured in many cuisines across the globe. Their rich flavor and meaty consistency makes them unique in their ability to add distinctive, earthy tones to a dish, as well as to replicate the denser texture of a hearty protein.

The sheer number of species available to us in a local supermarket allows everyone to pick their poison (not literally — stay away from those!). They’re the perfect ingredient to feature in sauces, stews, pastas, and even as the main itself. The possibilities are endless.

Much Ado About Mushrooms

Vitamin D Source

Mushrooms are the only item in the fresh produce section that have their own rich source of vitamin D.

Shitake Strikes Again

Researchers have found that indirect lightning strikes are extremely helpful in the development of most mushrooms. Shitake crops in particular double their yield after a lightning exposure.

Luminous ’Shrooms

There are 80 species of mushrooms that actually glow in the dark.

Shallot and Wine Mushroom Medley

Recipe by Rorie Weisberg

Reproduced from Food You Love:
That Loves You Back by Rorie Weisberg with permission of the copyright holders, ArtScroll / Mesorah Publications, Ltd.

I use mushrooms anywhere I can: in salads, as toppers to many different veggie dishes, as mix-ins to countless starchy sides, and in meats, chickens, and soups. Here, I let them shine on their own.

SERVES 7–8

• 2 lbs (910 g) mixed mushrooms of choice; adjust to preferences and seasonal availability (see note)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 shallots, sliced thin
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tsp fresh or 1 tsp dry thyme or rosemary
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp coarse black pepper

Heat oil in a large, deep frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add sliced shallots; sauté until soft and golden, 8–10 minutes. Add mushrooms; increase heat to high, stirring with a wooden spoon to combine. Continue cooking; after about 10 minutes, mushrooms will begin to release moisture.

When most of the liquid has evaporated and the mushrooms start to brown, add the wine, mustard, spices, and herbs. Stir gently to allow the mushrooms to absorb the flavor.

Reduce heat to medium. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Note: When available, I use 7–8 oz shitake mushrooms, 8–10 oz baby bella mushrooms, 8–10 oz white button mushrooms, 3–4 oz maitake or oyster mushrooms, and 3 oz brown beech mushrooms.