With autumn arriving, many people seize the moment to recreate some of the season’s most beloved recipes, using ingredients that shine in cooler weather. Mushrooms stand out as a staple, thriving in fields across Spain as the rains begin. They play a crucial role in a wide range of dishes and are essential to the country’s culinary heritage.
Beyond flavor, mushrooms offer culinary versatility. They invite cooks to explore a broad spectrum of styles while creating new dishes. There are numerous mushroom varieties, though care is important with inedible kinds, and each type can spark countless meals with distinct tastes.
What follows is a concise look at several main fungi species and their most common uses.
oyster mushrooms. Shutterstock
1- Oyster mushroom
One of the most familiar mushrooms, appearing nearly all year. Its spongy texture yields a very tasty bite and lends itself to simple cooking. It suits dishes grilled or baked, and it is a natural pairing with potatoes in mushroom dishes.
chanterelles Shutterstock
2- Chanterelle
A hallmark of Spanish cuisine with a smooth, orange-hued surface and delicate aroma. Perfect for grilling or sautéing with other vegetables, it also works fried or pickled.
chanterelles Shutterstock
3- Chanterelle
Characterized by a deep yellow tint, a distinctive shape with a wider, slightly flattened cap, and a fruity scent. This mushroom is excellent for meat stews and can be enjoyed raw as well.
Shi itake mushrooms. Shutterstock
4- Shiitake
Once relatively unknown in Spain, it gained popularity as Asian cuisine grew in appeal. Originating in China, this mushroom is now widely used. It has a dark brown cap and remains edible whether cooked or raw. It shines in stir fries and soups.
Muffin. Shutterstock
5- Donut
In European cooking, this mushroom has a long history as a common ingredient. It features a thick stem, a broad cap, and a pale color. Its flavor tends to be sweeter than other varieties, making it suitable for baking, grilling, or even eating raw. A gentle, flavorful addition, it pairs well with a range of dishes.