Parasol Mushroom Amerilepiota Procera Parasol Mushroom (Amerilepiota Procera)
The parasol mushroom (Macrolepiota procera) is a large, edible mushroom that is found in temperate regions around the world. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with a large, umbrella-shaped cap and a tall, slender stem.
Parasol mushrooms are typically white to cream in color, with brown scales on the cap. The cap can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) in diameter, and the stem can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) tall.
Parasol mushrooms are typically found in grassy areas, such as meadows, pastures, and parks. They can also be found in woodland edges and clearings.
Edible Uses
Parasol mushrooms are considered to be a choice edible mushroom. They have a mild, nutty flavor and a firm, meaty texture. Parasol mushrooms can be eaten fresh, cooked, or dried.
When cooking parasol mushrooms, it is important to remove the scales from the cap. The scales can be tough and difficult to digest. The gills (the underside of the cap) can also be tough, so they are often removed as well.
Parasol mushrooms can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, stir-fries, and pizzas. They can also be dried and ground into a powder, which can be used as a seasoning or thickener.
Nutritional Value
Parasol mushrooms are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. They are also low in calories and fat.
Here is a table of the nutritional value of 100 grams of raw parasol mushrooms:
Safety
Parasol mushrooms are generally safe for most people to consume. However, it is important to note that parasol mushrooms can be confused with poisonous mushrooms, such as the green-spored parasol (Chlorophyllum molybdites).
To avoid poisoning, it is important to be able to identify parasol mushrooms correctly. Parasol mushrooms have white or cream-colored gills, while green-spored parasols have green gills.
If you are unsure whether a mushroom is a parasol mushroom, it is best to err on the side of caution and not eat it.
Conclusion
Parasol mushrooms are a delicious and nutritious edible mushroom that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. When foraging for parasol mushrooms, it is important to be able to identify them correctly to avoid poisoning.
