White mushrooms have a mild, woodsy flavor that intensifies with
cooking.
The white mushroom is the most widely cultivated and consumed mushroom in the world. These
mushrooms range in color from creamy white to light brown. The cap of the white mushroom is
fleshy and can range in size from 1 to 4 inches (2.5 to 10cm) across. The tender stem of the
white mushroom is 3/4-inch to 2 inches (1.9 to 5cm) long. White mushrooms have a mild, woodsy
flavor that intensifies with cooking.
Varieties
White mushrooms with small caps are sometimes referred to as
“button” mushrooms, while mushrooms with large caps are called
“jumbo.” They are sold fresh, canned, and dried.
Buying and storing tips
When buying fresh white mushrooms, select mushrooms that are intact
and firm. Avoid mushrooms that are wrinkled, slimy, ragged, or spotted. White mushrooms will
stay fresh for up to seven days when stored in the refrigerator in a paper bag. White
mushrooms can also be frozen if necessary. To freeze, place raw white mushrooms on a tray in
the freezer; when frozen, store in the freezer in a plastic bag or container.
Availability
White mushrooms are available year-round in most grocery stores.
Preparation, uses, and tips
White mushrooms can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often served in
salads and with dips, or can be added to soups, sauces,
egg dishes, casseroles, and stews. Immediately before using fresh white mushrooms, clean
them gently with a cloth or soft brush and remove the base of the stem. When serving white
mushrooms raw, sprinkle them with lemon juice or vinegar to prevent them from turning brown.
Nutritional Highlights
White mushroom, 1/2 cup (100g) (raw, pieces)
Calories: 8.7
Protein: 1.01g
Carbohydrate: 1.43g
Total Fat: 0.12g
Fiber: 0.42g
Copyright © 2002 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights
reserved. www.healthnotes.com
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Foodnotes.
The information presented in Foodnotes is for informational
purposes only and was created by a team of U.S. registered dietitians and food experts.
Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using
any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed
medications. Information expires December 2003.
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