You know when we talk about healthy eating, we often forget to add mushrooms to the topic. It’s one of the most underrated species on this planet. Yes, it’s true that mushrooms are categorized under the label of “fungi ”. fungi, something we are told to stay away from because they are poisonous. But not all fungi are to be frowned upon or considered gross. Ever heard about maitake mushrooms? New to this name? Well, get your notepad and take notes because you are about to know about this magical mushroom. Let’s begin.
About
Maitake basically means dancing mushrooms. A common story tells that it got its name when people danced with happiness after discovering it in the mountains. Well, Maitake mushrooms have incredible healing properties, anyone would dance with such discovery. Maitake mushroom is rich in:
- Vitamin B and C
- Antioxidants
- Amino acids
- Fiber
- Potassium
- Copper
- Beta-glucans
- Minerals
With so many nutritions, it is capable of curing various diseases. Let’s study some amazing health benefits this mushroom is packed with.
- Improve immunity: Maitake mushroom is known to have a positive effect on overall immunity.
- Fight cancer: This mushroom has shown better results in treating and preventing deadly cancer, as compared to the other mushrooms.
- Increases energy
- Balances hormones
- Builds bones
- Support metabolism
- Provide nourishment to hearts and liver
How to cook with maitake mushrooms?
Maitake mushrooms are consumed in cooked form. People cook it in the same ways they cook other mushrooms and just as you would expect, it has a deep earthy flavor.
This mushroom comes in large bunches that need to be broken down into smaller pieces to cook properly. Maitake mushrooms have very thin edges, so it is advisable to skip them when you are thinking of preparing a rich sauce of hearty stew. These stay well when used in the fried version. You can use an air fryer to fry them using some sesame oil or olive oil and then use it in your soup. You can also chop it into little pieces and toss it into your omelet to get its benefits. Maitake mushrooms can blend into different dishes if you cut them into small pieces. Basically, try to use this mushroom as a base if you don’t want to fill your mouth with rubber chunks of fungi.
Other ways to consume maitake mushrooms
Some people can’t accept the idea of adding fungi to their food. They find it gross. But, maitake mushrooms have a number of health benefits that can cure various ailments. For such people, there are other ways to get the benefits of maitake mushrooms. You can take maitake mushroom supplements. Some brands offer maitake mushroom supplements made purely from the maitake extract derived deep from the mountains of China. You can either take supplements or it comes in powdered form.
Now you know the various health benefits of maitake mushrooms. You can take it in any of the above-mentioned forms for additional nutrients.