Mushrooms are the February Harvest of the Month

This month’s harvest is not a vegetable but a fungus. However, their nutritional benefits are similar to a vegetable. Mushrooms have been eaten by many cultures for thousands of year, but they were not widely cultivated until the 19th century.

During the month of February, you may find mushrooms used more abundantly in a variety of recipes from our cafeterias.

Did You Know?

  • The world’s largest producer of mushrooms is China.
  • The most expensive mushroom is the European White Truffle, which is often sold for over $3,000 per pound.
  • Mushrooms are sometimes called the meat of the vegetable world.

Try These Delicious Recipes

Creamy Mushroom Soup
Mushroom and Zucchini Saute
Portobello Fajitas

How to Buy, Store & Prepare: Fresh and canned mushrooms can be purchased at most grocery stores. When buying fresh mushrooms, reach for those that have an earthy and woody scent. Avoid mushrooms that have an overly musty or moldy scent. Mushrooms should be stored in the refrigerator and washed just before they are prepared. Once washed, mushrooms can be eaten both raw and cooked.

Making it Kid-Friendly: Mushrooms have a mild flavor and may be easier for children to accept when compared to more strongly flavored produce. Preparing stuffed mushrooms together is a great way to incorporate kids into the cooking process while avoiding sharp objects. The stems of mushrooms can be easily pulled out by hand, rather than cut, and any of the family’s favorite ingredients can be added to the cap.

Nutrition and Health Benefits: Mushrooms have a meaty texture, which makes them a good substitute for meat in many dishes. They are also excellent meat extenders, which mean they can be mixed with meat, such as in ground beef, to reduce the amount of meat that is used in a recipe. This can be beneficial to those concerned with improving their heart health as well as those looking to reduce the cost of their grocery bill. Mushrooms are also a good source of potassium, boasting 305mg in 1 cup, nearly as much as a medium banana.

Calories: 96Fiber: 1g
Total Fat: 0gProtein: 3g
Total Carbohydrate: 3gPotassium: 305mg
Niacin: 3.5mgMagnesium: 8.6mg
Vitamin D: 0.2mgZinc: 0.5mg