What Are Crimini Mushrooms?
Crimini mushrooms are a common light brown variety of button mushroom. They are a type of fungus known scientifically as Agaricus bisporus. These mushrooms go by many names and are often used in cooking. Crimini mushrooms are a healthy food despite the fact that they depend on decaying organic matter for their subsistence. Does this Spark an idea?
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Names
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Crimini mushrooms are also known as white button mushrooms, brown mushrooms, brown cremini mushrooms, baby or mini bella mushrooms and portobella or portobellini mushrooms. Most commonly, crimini mushrooms are around 2 inches in diameter, while portobello mushrooms are more fully grown examples of the same species around 4 to 6 inches in diameter.
Selection
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The best crimini mushrooms are firm, fat and brown. Avoid wrinkly or slimy mushrooms. Crimini mushrooms are usually available in either fresh or dried form, and certified organic mushrooms are the healthiest. Before eating them, clean them with a damp towel or cloth or a mushroom brush, as too much water makes them soggy.
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Cooking
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Small fresh shiitake mushrooms are an acceptable substitute for crimini mushrooms in recipes, if necessary. Cooking crimini mushrooms, especially via sauteing, is the healthiest and tastiest way to enjoy them. These mushrooms are often enjoyed with onions, tomato or other vegetables, and sometimes stuffed with cheese or inside an omelet.
Health Benefits
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Crimini mushrooms are good for you. They contain immune system supporting phytonutrients, vitamin D, anti-inflammatory compounds, antioxidants, protein, dietary fiber, healthy conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), zinc, selenium, copper, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, iron, calcium, folate, choline and the B vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12. Crimini mushrooms are especially notable among mushrooms for their strong immune system supporting qualities.
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