Chicken mushrooms are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. According to experts, these mushrooms are rich in protein, minerals, polysaccharides, and oligosaccharides, which boost the immune system and improve digestion. Incorporating chicken mushrooms into your diet can offer numerous health benefits.
Of course, to enjoy the best-tasting mushrooms, you need to know how to select them. Chicken mushrooms are usually thick and firm, and many buyers tend to choose larger ones. However, size is not the only factor to consider when purchasing fresh and tasty chicken mushrooms.
1. Size
While larger chicken mushrooms may seem more appealing, it’s important to remember that, like any other food, extremes in size are not desirable. Very small mushrooms might be underripe, while overly large ones can be too old and lose their tenderness.
The ideal size for the most delicious chicken mushrooms is between 12 and 15 cm, or about one hand length. Mushrooms within this size range will be firm, crisp, and packed with nutrients.
2. Color
High-quality chicken mushrooms typically have a creamy white color with a hint of yellow. Their surface feels slightly dry and has a coarse, rough texture. Avoid mushrooms that are too white or shiny, as they may have been treated with chemicals. Signs of potentially unsafe mushrooms include a slightly moist or smooth surface.
3. Cap
Examine the cap of the chicken mushroom, which is usually gray. If the cap has darkened, it’s best to avoid it. Thicker caps indicate better quality. Additionally, the edges of the cap should curl inward slightly, not outward.
If the cap has changed color or shows black spots, it’s a clear sign that the mushroom is no longer fresh, and you should not purchase it.
4. Stem
The stem of a fresh chicken mushroom is typically opaque white. When touched, it should feel slightly elastic and moist but not sticky. If you notice any water seeping out or if the stem is too dry and sticky, the mushroom is not fresh enough for consumption, regardless of the price.
5. Smell
Fresh chicken mushrooms have a distinct, pleasant aroma. If you detect any strange odors, it’s a sign that the mushrooms are not suitable for consumption, and you should refrain from buying them.
Once you’ve purchased fresh chicken mushrooms, you can prepare a variety of delicious dishes. Here are some simple yet tasty recipes to try:
CHICKEN MUSHROOM IN SAUCE
Clean the chicken mushrooms and cut them into thick slices, about 2 cm each. Make diagonal cuts on the surface of the mushrooms for better presentation and seasoning absorption. Peel and finely chop the garlic, and do the same with the scallions.
Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken mushroom slices until golden brown on both sides. Prepare the sauce by mixing light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Pour the sauce into the pan with the fried mushrooms, add the chopped garlic and scallions, and stir-fry a few times before turning off the heat.
PORK AND CHICKEN MUSHROOM STIR-FRY
Choose lean pork or pork belly and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Marinate the meat with a pinch of salt, light soy sauce, pepper, and MSG for about 15-20 minutes. Clean and slice the chicken mushrooms.
Heat oil in a pan and stir-fry the pork until it changes color. Set the pork aside in a dish. Using the same pan, fry the chopped garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the sliced chicken mushrooms and stir-fry them together.
Finally, put the marinated pork back into the pan and continue stir-frying until both ingredients are cooked to your liking.
CRISPY FRIED CHICKEN MUSHROOMS
Clean and tear the chicken mushrooms into long strips or slice them thinly. Sprinkle salt over the mushrooms and let them sit for about 10 minutes. In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and an egg to create a batter.
Squeeze the mushrooms to remove excess water, then dip them into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated. Heat oil in a pan and fry the battered mushrooms briefly. Remove them from the oil and let them rest for about 10 minutes. Fry the mushrooms a second time until they turn golden and crispy.
Serve the crispy fried chicken mushrooms with chili sauce for a tasty treat.
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