Boost your mushroom intake on World Health Day

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Mark your calendars, Australia—October 15 is World Mushroom Day, and what better way to celebrate than by showcasing one of the world’s most versatile and delicious ingredients: Australian mushrooms! Whether you’re a long-time mushroom lover or just getting into cooking with these fabulous fungi, we’ve got you covered with 10 incredible mushroom-inspired recipes from 10 different countries. These dishes highlight how mushrooms can take center stage in any cuisine.

This World Mushroom Day, head down to your local market, grab some fresh mushrooms, and try one (or more!) of these global recipes. Cook up a storm for your family and friends and join us in celebrating the tasty, versatile and healthy goodness of mushrooms.

Here’s a culinary trip around the world, all from the comfort of your kitchen!

 

For something hearty, give this Greek Mushroom Stifado a go. It’s a rich, slow-cooked stew that’s full of bold flavours like red wine and tomatoes, with mushrooms soaking up all that goodness. Just serve with some crusty bread to mop up the sauce.

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? This 30-Minute Mushroom Laksa brings the rich, aromatic flavours of Southeast Asia to your table in no time. It’s a deliciously comforting noodle soup that’s bursting with flavour.

Fancy a bit of British flair? This Duxelles & Individual Beef Wellington gives you that restaurant-quality meal at home. Mushrooms add a delicious juicy layer, and the crispy golden puff pastry will make this a family fave. 

Take your taste buds on a trip to the Middle East with Mushroom Shawarma. Marinated in a blend of spices, these mushrooms are roasted until they’re tender and juicy. Serve them with pita, tahini, and fresh veggies for a light and tasty meal.

If you’re after something warm and nourishing, this Miso Sesame Crusted Mushroom Udon Noodle Soup hits the spot. The mushrooms are crusted in sesame seeds for a bit of crunch, while the miso broth gives the soup its signature umami kick.

Try something different with this West African Mushroom Suya. The mushrooms are simmered in a spicy, flavourful sauce that packs a punch. It’s bold, vibrant, and guaranteed to a firm favourite for any family dinner table. Yum!

Creamy and comforting, this Mixed Mushroom Stroganoff is an absolute winner. With rich, earthy mushrooms cooked in a luscious sauce, it’s quick to whip up and perfect for a cozy night in.

Short on time? You’ll love this Microwave Mushroom Risotto. It’s creamy, delicious, and so simple. Just pop it in the microwave, and in a few minutes, you’ve got yourself a bowl of Italian comfort food.

Taco night? These Tex Mex Pulled Mushroom Tacos are a game changer. The mushrooms are shredded and cooked with bold spices, then topped with fresh salsa and crumbled queso fresco. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser.

Put an Aussie twist on your dinner with Mushroom Schnitzel Parmigiana. You can’t go wrong with a golden, crumbed mushroom schnitzel topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. It’s a vegetarian take on a pub classic that everyone will love.

It’s a common concern as we age – the ability to keep our mind sharp and our brain active.

World Health Day is on April 7 and the Australian Mushroom Growers Association (AMGA) is urging older Australians to boost their intake of mushrooms following new research into nutrients found in mushrooms and cognitive health.

AMGA Dietitian and one of Australia’s leading nutritionists Jane Freeman says it seems as though by consuming even a small portion of mushrooms each week could help lower the risk of cognitive impairment, which often precedes conditions like dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease

“Mushrooms have grabbed the attention of dementia researchers due to being one of the highest food sources of a neuroprotective type of amino acid called ergothioneine,” Ms Freeman says.

“Interestingly, mushrooms are a food that contains one of highest sources of ergothioneine which may contribute to the promotion of nerve tissue and help stave off symptoms of brain disorders.

“It’s an exciting time to see this research coming out because Alzheimer’s disease affects up to one in 10 Australians over the age of 65, and up to three in 10 Australian over the age of 85.”

A healthy lifestyle is important too, including regular exercise which has been shown to help slow or prevent the onset of dementia.

So how many mushrooms do we need to eat to help to keep our brains healthier?

Ms Freeman says research from the National University of Singapore found seniors who ate more than two standard portions of mushrooms per week (equivalent to half a plate) could have 50 percent less chance of suffering mild cognitive impairment.

“A separate study published in the British Journal of Nutrition also showed that even eating one small portion of mushrooms a week was beneficial to reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

“This is another reason why we all should be eating three mighty mushrooms a day, to support our overall health,” Ms Freeman adds.

Fast Fact: Alzehiemer's diseases is the most common type of irreversible dementia which affects memory, intellect, rational thought and social skills.

AMGA Dietitian - Jane Freeman

Jane is an internationally regarded and experienced dietitian and nutritionist, is an IOC (International Olympic Committee) qualified sports nutritionist, Leiths qualified cook and an award-winning author.

As a practicing dietitian and director for CANutriton, a cancer specialist nutrition practice in Sydney, Jane is big mushroom lover and passionate about delivering practical nutrition advice that is easy to understand and adopt.

Jane Freeman - Dietitian

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This World Mushroom Day, let’s come together to celebrate one of the worlds most versatile ingredients by cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Whether you’re craving something rich and comforting, fresh and light, or spicy and bold, there’s a mushroom recipe for you. So head to your local market, grab some mushrooms, and help us celebrate World Mushroom Day—one delicious dish at a time!

Don’t forget to share your creations with us! Tag your mushroom masterpieces with #WorldMushroomDay and spread the love of mushrooms across the globe.