A key food trend in 2024 is mushrooms, which are moving to the forefront. Being a versatile plant-based ingredient, it is being used as a meat alternative. Also, their health benefits are now the focus, as they are nutrient-dense.

2024 heralds the rise of mushrooms as a powerhouse ingredient in the culinary world. Their adaptability as a meat substitute and dense nutritional profile make them a game-changer for health-conscious consumers. “This versatile fungus not only elevates the taste of dishes but also enhances their nutritional value. Embracing mushrooms is not just a trend; it’s a smart culinary choice that aligns with both sustainability and wellness. As a chef, I foresee this fungal sensation revolutionizing menus and diets, offering a delectable gateway to a healthier, plant-forward futures the powers of mushrooms,” says Chef Daniel Koshy, Culinary Director at VRO Hospitality.

Versatile and full of health advantages, mushrooms are a great addition to food preparations. Packed full of umami flavour, they easily take the place of meat in vegetarian and vegan recipes. Apart from their flavourful characteristics, mushrooms are low in calories and high in vital elements like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Beta-glucans, one of its special constituents, boost immunological activity and may be beneficial to heart health. Ergosterol, which is also included in mushrooms, is a precursor to vitamin D and is essential for healthy bones. Including mushrooms on our menus is a great way to add variety and healthfulness to our meals, not to mention that eating them tastes better,” says Rajdeep Kapoor, Area Executive Chef (Northern Region), Sr. Executive Chef – ITC Maurya.

The exponential global wellness trend centred around mushrooms, particularly highlighting cordyceps, shows no signs of waning; instead, it is poised to strengthen further. As awareness continues to grow, people are increasingly embracing mushrooms as a comprehensive solution for holistic wellness.

Mushrooms (Shimeji, King Mushroom) are essential food for the plant-based movement. The nutritional benefits and sustainable attributes of mushrooms are highly attractive to the menu. Furthermore, mushrooms, with their inherent meaty qualities are the ideal central ingredient for offering plant-based, plant-forward dishes. Bringing all these elements together, flavour, function, form, and footprint make mushrooms a particularly appealing in our menu,” says Tenzin Phuntsok, Executive Sous Chef, JW Marriott Chandigarh.

“Guests have become increasingly health conscious, and mushrooms have become one of their staple foods. It has become increasingly common for non-vegetarian guests to substitute mushrooms for meat products. Today, chefs create dishes incorporating mushrooms, which have local Flavours and are gaining traction,” says Prakash Kumar D, Executive Chef, The Woodrose by Brigade Hospitality. With people becoming health-conscious and more responsible towards the environment, plant-based food has set off as a popular diet statement. Mushrooms have emerged as a versatile and savoury alternative to meat. Packed with umami flavour, mushrooms bring a robust, meaty taste to dishes.

Mushrooms are nature’s recyclers, thriving on waste and enriching soil. They require minimal water and land, making them a champion for sustainable agriculture. As we grapple with climate change, mushrooms offer a delicious and responsible way to nourish ourselves and the planet. “So, ditch the meat aisle and embrace the bounty of the forest floor. In 2024, mushrooms are stepping out of the shadows and onto the centre stage, ready to revolutionize our plates, our health, and our planet,” says Chef Juliano Rodrigues Brand Chef of Thea

Mushrooms are low in calories, have virtually no fat and no cholesterol, and are very low in sodium. From polysaccharides to antioxidants, functional mushrooms provide various nutrients to support health. Powder-full mushrooms may help you combat stress, support your exercise routine, enhance your fertility, improve your mood, and prolong life.

Mushrooms offer various health benefits, making them a nutritious addition to diets:

• Rich in Nutrients: Mushrooms are a good source of essential nutrients, including B vitamins (such as riboflavin and niacin), minerals (like selenium and copper), and antioxidants.
• Immune Support: Some mushrooms, like shiitake and maitake, contain beta-glucans that may enhance immune function and help the body defend against infections.
• Vitamin D: When exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light during growth, mushrooms can provide a natural source of vitamin D, crucial for bone health and immune function.
• Low in Calories: Mushrooms are low in calories and can be a satisfying, flavorful addition to meals, making them suitable for those managing their weight.
• Antioxidant Properties: Mushrooms contain various antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and may contribute to overall health.

Here are some ideas on how to incorporate mushrooms into your daily meals:

• Curries: Mushrooms absorb the rich flavours of Indian spices well. Add sliced mushrooms to your favourite vegetable or chicken curry for an extra layer of texture and taste.
• Stir-Fries: Prepare a quick and healthy stir-fry by tossing mushrooms with various colourful vegetables, spices, and your choice of protein. Serve it with roti or rice.
• Biryani: Enhance the depth of flavour in your biryani by incorporating sautéed mushrooms. They blend well with the aromatic rice and spices.
• Masala Omelette: Include diced mushrooms in your morning omelette for a protein-packed and satisfying breakfast. Sautee them with onions, tomatoes, and spices before adding eggs.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Make mushroom-filled sandwiches or wraps with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. Add a spread of chutney or sauce for extra flavour.
• Pulao: Mushroom pulao is a delicious and easy-to-make dish. Cook mushrooms with rice, spices, and vegetables for a flavourful one-pot meal.
• Soups: Add sliced mushrooms to your favourite Indian soups, such as tomato soup or lentil soup, to enhance their nutritional content and taste.
• Mushroom Paratha: Mix finely chopped mushrooms with spices and use the mixture as a filling for parathas. Serve them with yogurt or pickles.
• Mushroom Tikka: Marinate mushrooms in a flavourful mixture of yogurt and spices, then grill or bake for a tasty and healthy mushroom tikka.
• Mushroom Bonda: Prepare a South Indian-style mushroom bonda by coating spiced mushroom filling with gram flour batter and deep-frying until golden brown.

Button Mushrooms are a popular choice for many due to their mild flavour and versatile culinary uses. They can be used in a variety of dishes, including curries, stir-fries, soups, and salads, making them a versatile ingredient in Indian cuisine. Their availability allows people to incorporate these mushrooms easily into their daily cooking, providing a nutritious and flavourful addition to meals. Button Mushrooms are not only delicious but also offer a range of health benefits, as they are low in calories and a good source of essential nutrients.

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