Mushroom

Mushroom – Description:

Botanical Name: Agaricus bisporus (common edible variety)
Family: Agaricaceae

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🍄 Description:

Mushrooms are soft, fleshy fungi that grow above ground or on decaying organic matter. The edible varieties usually have a white or light brown cap with a short, thick stalk. The underside of the cap has gills, which release spores for reproduction. Mushrooms are known for their unique umami flavor and meaty texture, making them popular in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

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🌱 Growth & Cultivation:

• Mushrooms grow naturally in damp, shady, and organic-rich environments.

• Commercially, they are cultivated on straw, compost, or sawdust beds.

• Common edible varieties: Button mushroom, Oyster mushroom, Shiitake, and Milky mushroom.

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🧅 Nutritional Value:

Mushrooms are a low-calorie superfood rich in:

• Protein and fiber

• B vitamins (B2, B3, B5)

• Vitamin D (especially sun-dried ones)

• Iron, selenium, potassium, and copper

• Antioxidants like ergothioneine and glutathione

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💪 Health Benefits:

• Strengthens immunity and supports heart health

• Helps in weight management

• Boosts energy levels and metabolism

• Improves skin and bone health

• Contains anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer compounds

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🍽️ Culinary Uses:

• Used in soups, curries, pasta, pizzas, stir-fries, and salads

• Can be grilled, sautéed, or stuffed

• Popular in Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines

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🌍 Common Names:

• Hindi: Kukurmutta / Dhingri / Mushroom

• English: Mushroom

• Tamil: Kaalan

• Telugu: Puttagodugu

• Bengali: Chhatu

• Marathi: Alambi