How to Use Mushrooms in Your Favorite Cuisines

It’s pretty amazing how foods and flavors evolve around the globe, isn’t it? There are endless culinary possibilities thanks to the varying ingredients of different regions. We’re lucky to have markets and grocery stores where we can access nearly any global ingredient, whether or not it’s native to our area. Exploring other cultures through their cuisine is a wonderful way to learn about the world. 

Trot the globe right from your kitchen with these mushroom-forward recipes inspired by international cuisines.

Mediterranean 

Since Mediterranean recipes are known for their fresh, healthy flavors, mushrooms are a perfect fit. They’re fat free, cholesterol free and low in sodium. Plus, mushrooms have a mild taste so they don’t overpower delicate dishes, but can help amplify flavors when more intensity is desired. Olives, garden veggies and feta cheese provide the fresh, tangy flavors Mediterranean meals are known for in these light yet satisfying Mushroom Zucchini Boats.

French 

Known for subtle flavors, elegant ingredients, delicate pastries and lots of cheese, French cuisine is a great place to put mushrooms’ versatility to use. Start your morning with a slice of this protein-packed quiche filled with a variety of fresh mushrooms and leafy greens. If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal, try this indulgent Coq Au Blanc. 

Middle Eastern

If flavor is what you’re looking for, this blended shawarma bowl’s got it. Like really got it. It calls for 10 different spices and wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, mushrooms, bison, bulgur and more.

Italian

Mushrooms + pasta = perfection. Spaghetti. Fettuccine. Ravioli. Orecchiette. White sauce. Red sauce. Meaty. Vegetarian. There’s no pasta dish mushrooms can’t enhance. 

Chinese

Mushrooms are the ultimate stir-fry add in. They soak up dressings like soy sauce for an extra pop of flavor. Plus, they make a great filling ingredient for dumplings and mix-in for fried rice. 

Japanese 

Japanese cuisine is known for variety and balance, incorporating an array of colors, techniques and flavors in every meal. Ramen is a popular noodle-based dish that originated in Japan. Try this shiitake-filled version you can take with you on the go. 

Thai 

If your taste buds are drawn to spice, Thai food is for you. With intense, intricate flavors and unique ingredient combinations, Thai cuisine is unlike many others. Get started with this Portabella Satay With Spicy Peanut Sauce or Thai-Style Coconut Chicken Soup.

Moroccan

Derived from various cultural influences, Moroccan cuisine has established a culinary profile all its own that uses vibrant herbs and spices, fresh fruits and vegetables, a variety of meats, including beef, goat, mutton, lamb and seafood. Get a taste of Moroccan flavor with this spicy mushroom meatball recipe. 

American

It’s no secret that mushrooms are great on a burger, but did you know they’re also delicious mixed INTO a burger? Meet The Blend^™, a cooking technique where chopped mushrooms are blended with ground meat to make burger patties or any ground meat recipe more delicious and nutritious. Give it a try! Or, go completely meatless and grill a portabella for a 100% veggie patty.

Mexican

The Blend makes tacos tastier and more nutritious too! Just blend chopped mushrooms with your taco meat for a lighter, more flavorful taco filling. Mushrooms also go great in quesadillas, enchiladas, burritos and even queso.

Canadian

What’s Canadian cuisine without poutine? We put our own spin on this Canadian tradition by using fingerling potatoes instead of fries and, of course, added lots of mushrooms! But don’t be fooled, this recipe is just as indulgent and satisfying as the original. 

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Find more mushroom recipes inspired by cultures around the world and across the country.