What is a "mushroom"?

Mushrooms are fungi that come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. They are widely consumed in cuisines around the world due to their unique taste and versatile culinary applications. Mushrooms can range from mild and earthy to savory and meaty, and they can be enjoyed raw or cooked in a variety of dishes. Common types of edible mushrooms include button mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, and cremini mushrooms, among others. Mushrooms can be sautéed, grilled, roasted, or used as an ingredient in soups, stews, stir-fries, pasta dishes, and more. They are valued not only for their delicious flavor but also for their nutritional benefits, as they are low in calories and fat and high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.