NAmeko
Pholiota Nameko
Nameko mushrooms are small to medium sized with a hat averaging 2-5 inches in diameter and slender, straight stems. The smooth, rounded hats are orange to amber, with a glossy sheen caused by a natural layer of gelatin covering the surface. As they get older, the caps gradually flatten and flare out at the edges. Under the cap are many light yellow to white gills and the stipe is tan, 5-7 centimeters long, flexible and thin. When cooked, Nameko mushrooms are firm and silky with a cashew-butterscotch aroma and a mildly fruity, nutty and earthy taste.
PREPARATION
Nameko mushrooms are suitable for cooked applications such as sautéing, grilling or boiling. The gelatinous shell of the hat acts as a natural thickener and is often used in soups, stews, risotto and sauces. The best way to strengthen the thickener is to sauté the mushrooms. To create a caramelization or glaze, it is recommended to roast or grill the mushrooms with meat and vegetables. Nameko mushrooms can be mixed into pasta or put on pizza. They are also often added to stir-fries, cooked in a mushroom pate, diced in salsa, or sliced and served on a crostini as an appetizer. Nameko mushrooms combine well with meats such as poultry, game, steak and fish, tofu, shallots, garlic, onion, Italian parsley, thyme, daikon radish, nori, cabbage, bean sprouts, carrots, almonds, cashew nuts, goat cheese, black olives, quinoa, miso, soy sauce, lemon zest, sherry, sake, pinot noir, and tobachan sauce. They will keep for 2-3 days, loosely wrapped and stored in the refrigerator.
Nameko mushrooms contain good amounts of selenium, which has antioxidant, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce cancer, thyroid disease, heart disease and cognitive decline. The polysaccharides promote anti-tumor immunity and induce apoptosis of tumor cells and exhibit anti-tumor properties. Nameko mushrooms are a low-energy diet that is helpful for diabetics. It contains a lot of water and fiber. Nameko mushrooms contain natural insulin and enzymes that help break down sugar or starch in food. It contains certain substances that support liver function, the pancreas and other endocrine glands. It promotes insulin production and its proper regulation throughout the body. The antibiotics contained in it help protect diabetic patients from painful and life-threatening conditions. Ergothionein is a powerful antioxidant found in Nameko mushrooms that protects against free radicals and strengthens the immune system. The daily intake of Nameko mushrooms promotes the functioning of the immune system by producing antiviral and proteins released by the cells. It also preserves and heals the body tissues. In addition, it promotes the body's defenses against microbes.
Other Names
- Japanse bundelzwam (Dutch)Goldkäpchen (German)Naméco (French)Pholiota nameko (Latin)
