This is one of the most familiar types of button mushrooms. Their distinctive features can be called a rather large size. And a hat that can be completely opened. In addition, it’s diameter often reaches 15 cm. By the way, it is precisely because of this feature that much more moisture evaporates with Portobello compared to other species of mushrooms, thanks to which its structure is more dense and fleshy.
What is a portobello mushroom?
Portobello mushrooms are ripe, white button mushrooms and a type of mushroom rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) which have anti cancer and anti-aging properties. Because they are a type of fungus, fungi are organic matter scavengers, meaning they grow by observing nutrients from the soil and decaying matter, such as wood or even manure. This allows them to become very nutrient dense, and when consumed by humans, their nutrients then help remove toxins from the body and eliminate free radicals that contribute to disease.
Where can you find Portobello mushroom?
Variety of mushrooms including those named portobello mushrooms, white mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, and shiitake mushrooms usually available at major grocery stores. Health food stores generally carry a wider variety of species, including fresh and dried mushrooms. Portobellos are normally sold fresh, but their size, smell and color differ depending on their degree of ripeness.
It usually grow entirely in non-attractive natural conditions, on pastures, along highways, and sometimes even in cemeteries. Moreover, to popularize this little known variety of mushroom in the 1980s. They came up with this original name Portobello. Before at that time, this product was absolutely not used in cooking, more often than not, they just threw it away.
Today everything has changed radically. Portobello received the status of one of the most demanded and popular mushrooms, which are often used in cooking Israeli dishes and European cuisines.
Due to the fact that Portobello belongs to the category of rare mushrooms, they are sold exclusively in specialized stores and delicacies, as well as certain sections of individual supermarkets. Basically, is used to prepare main dishes and a variety of snacks.
Negative effects of portobello mushrooms
The limitation to the use of these mushrooms in cooking is that their pulp is capable of actively absorbing moisture.
When cooking, this characteristic has an extremely negative effect on the organoleptic qualities of Portobello, including taste and smell. This is why its recommended primary processing of fungi is minimized, limiting itself to cleaning contamination, and cook with the smallest quantity of water.
Portobello will not hurt if you buy it in the store. Cultivated at home, these mushrooms are environmentally friendly and safe. But if you have the best Portobello in its natural habitat, it is a chance to poison yourself with harmful substances, as one of their favorite places, near roads including highways.
In this case, Portobello absorbs all harmful components, contained in the soil. In addition, with a young mushroom it is quite possible to confuse. Therefore, it is better not to risk and buy mushrooms only in those stores who are responsible for the quality of their product.
Possibility of weight gain
This mushrooms are low in calories and fats, but the cooking methods and accompanying ingredients used in preparing portobello mushrooms dishes can greatly affect the calorie content. High calories toppings, sauces, or excess oil can negate the potential weight management benefits of portobello mushrooms.
Effect on mineral absorption
Mushrooms, including Portobello, contain a compound called oxalic acid, which can hinder the absorption of essential minerals such as calcium and iron. While this effect is generally insignificant, individuals who are different in certain nutrients or those who rely heavily on plant sources of this minerals should consider eating this mushrooms.
Effect on blood sugar levels
This mushroom has a low glycemic index, which means it has little effect on blood sugar levels. However, individuals with diabetes or those who closely monitor their blood sugar should be careful while taking it.
Digestive discomfort
Consuming portobello mushrooms may cause digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, which can be attributed to the high fiber content of the mushroom and some indigestible compounds found in the mushroom such as chitin.
How to use and cook portobello mushrooms?
When shopping for portobellos, look for mushrooms that are firm, sturdy, have no tears, and don’t appear shriveled or slippery. You can also sniff mushrooms to get it if they are fresh, looking for any that have an earthy smell. Start by removing the thick stem from the bottom of your mushroom caps (if they have them).
Mushrooms absorb a lot of water, which means it is best not to rinse them in a lot of water or soak them to try to remove any dirt. To remove any residue from the surface of the mushrooms, use a damp cloth, rag or heavy duty paper towel. Gently rub the mushroom to clean them, being careful not to rub them too hard as this may cause them to break. Once you have finished cleaning the mushrooms, pat them with a dry clothes or paper towel to let them dry. This way they don’t get too soggy when you cook or prepare them.
Also Read: Eating Mushrooms During Pregnancy: Benefits, Risks, And Precautions
Final thoughts
Once shopping for Portobellos, look for mushrooms that are firm, sturdy, have no tears, and don’t appear shriveled or slippery. You can also sniff mushrooms to tell if they are afresh. Get them fresh and cook them according to how we have stated above. Do not consume too much of portobello mushrooms just as the rules apply too much of everything will definitely have an implication.
Portobello mushrooms are good and essential for our health, but when the consumption is abused, it will definitely have negative health implications.
The negative effect of portobello mushroom as outlined above may have severe or chronic complications if proper care is not taken. Hence, make sure you get portobello mushroom from a license store or health food stores in order to get rid of the negative effect of this mushroom.
