Types of Vegetarian Foods Produced by Fungi
Fungi are microbial organisms that act as decomposers and recycling agents in the ecosystem. Fungi are also important to humans, as they assist in the growth of plants and serve as a source of food. Fungi foods, such as edible mushrooms, can be eat directly, while other foods use fungi as a fermentor, converting one food substance into another. Vegetarians who stick to a diet free of meat products benefit from fungi, as many vegetarian food products are produced by fungi. Does this Spark an idea?
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Quorn
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In the 1960s, farmers in London discovered a mushroom-like fungus that could be used to mimic the fibrous strands of meat. Today, this fungus is grown through fermentation and combined with eggs and flavoring to create a meat substitute called Quorn. Quorn, also known as mycoprotein, is used to create a variety of vegetarian-friendly products, such as chicken-less nuggets and beef-style grounds. Quorn is both high in fiber and low in calories, making it a healthy choice for vegetarians.
Tempeh
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Tempeh is a vegetarian-friendly product made from fermented soy beans or legumes to create a protein-rich meat substitute. To create tempeh, the shells are removed from the beans prior to cooking and draining. The beans are then treated with a fungus that penetrates, binding them together to create a tofu-like product. The fungus also removes compounds within the beans that cause gas. Tempeh is used much like tofu. It can also be created using grains, such as rice.
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Soy Sauce
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Soy sauce is one of the world's oldest condiments. This meatless seasoning is used to enhance the flavor of vegetables, as well as noodle and rice dishes. Soy sauce is made from soy beans that are inoculated with a fungus. To create soy sauce, soy beans are first cooked and pressed into cakes using wheat and flour. The cakes are then treated with a fungus and placed in a special room where they begin to grow spores. Once the cakes are covered with yellow spores, they are mixed with water, salt and a special bacterium that causes fermentation over a six month period. The aged liquid derived is known as soy sauce.
Other Products
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Other vegetarian-friendly products produced by fungi include cheese, bread, beer and wine. Cheese is created through a mold-like fungus, while beer, wine and bread are created using yeast. Miso is another product created by fungus. It is used as a flavor enhancer and also to make miso soup. Miso is fermented soybean paste. It is made using soybeans and rice that are treated with fungi and left to ferment.
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References
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