Nature’s hidden Gem: Chanterelle mushrooms:
Among the world of many different types of mushrooms, there lies a gem hidden under the forests, covered in moss: the Chanterelle mushroom. Yellow orange in color, with its vibrant hue and delicacy of its funnel shaped cap, this mushroom catches the sight of many chefs and scavengers.
With the flavor of meat and smooth texture of its cap, this creature of woods excites the taste buds of a person. Let’s explore the mysteries of this hidden gem and the ways through which it has conquered both the culinary and nutritional world.
Where is chanterelle mushroom located?
The Chanterelle mushroom is native to forests found between the boreal and tropical region, i.e. temperate zones. These temperate zones are present in north America, Eurasia and Africa. These mushrooms are present in access amount in these areas. Chanterelle mushrooms also grow in clusters in coniferous forests that are evergreen and have a lot of cones. In rare occasions, these mushrooms also found in the forests present in the mountains.
Chanterelle mushrooms and cuisines:
Chanterelle mushrooms are a species of fungus that belongs to the genera of Cantharellus, Craterellus and Polyozellus. Despite being a fungi and part of forests, these mushrooms produce a unique fruity aroma of fruits like apricots and peaches which makes these mushrooms a prized ingredient in different cuisines. Besides its mellow aroma, another most important quality of this mushroom that allure chefs towards this mushroom is its exquisite and rich flavor profile. Subtle peppery flavor with the hints of sweetness attracts many people towards this magnificent woodland. Whether present with creamy risottos or sauces, grill them to perfection or sauteed it in butter and use in Italian foods, chanterelles mushrooms give a unique and booming flavor and texture to great variety of culinary products.
What are the health benefits of chanterelle mushrooms?
As good as the taste of this mushroom, this woodland also offers a lot of benefits related to health and nutrition of the body. Chanterelle mushrooms have low calories and fats which makes this mushroom daily use product. Beside the benefit of low calories, this mushroom has a lot of essential nutrients and vitamins like vitamin C, D, copper, potassium etc. Chanterelles also provide a good amount of antioxidants such as beta carotene and lutein, which are good to neutralize the harmful radicals in human body and to protect skin cells from damage and aging.
Beyond their nutritional benefits, chanterelle mushrooms also provide protection against chronic diseases like cancer, heart diseases and diabetes. These mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which studies have shown are good to prevent chronic diseases. As these mushrooms are low in calories and provide a lot of benefits to health, adding these into daily diet is a valuable addition for healthy body.
Conclusion:
The result of our journey is that chanterelle mushrooms should be a part of everyday diet because of its mouthwatering flavor, aroma, nutritional and health benefits. So, next time you are strolling through the woods, try to keep an eye out for these hidden gems for your own good.