Almond Mushroom
By: Sheri Wetherell

About

Unlike many other mushrooms, the identification of the almond mushroom appears to have begun in the West where it was first found in the Northeastern area of the US and Canada. It’s well-known for its medicinal properties and is enjoyed for its sweet, almond like flavor and aroma.

Information
Unlike many other mushrooms, the identification of the almond mushroom appears to have begun in the West where it was first found in the Northeastern area of the US and Canada. It’s well-known for its medicinal properties and is enjoyed for its sweet, almond like flavor and aroma.
Other names: Agaricus Sunrufescens, Agaricus Blazei, Agaricus Rufotegulis, Almond Portobello Mushroom, Mushroom of the Sun, God's Mushroom, Mushroom of Life, Royal Sun Agaricus, jisongrong, himematsutake, Princess Matsutake
Translations: 杏仁松茸, 姫まつたけ
Physical Description
The cap varies in color from white, grey, brown and reddish-brown. The shape of the cap in convex, the underside gills begin as white, then develop to pink as the mushroom ages, and finally to brownish-black as the spores mature.
Colors: Light brown, light tan/white on underside (gills) and stem
Tasting Notes
Flavors: Sweet; fragrant with hints of almonds, hence the name  
Mouthfeel: Soft, velvety
Food complements: The sweet, delicate flavor of the almond mushroom make it a food-friendly and versatile ingredient in a number of dishes. Try it in soups and stews, pasta, meat and fish, in sauces, even as a tea.
Wine complements: Red, white, and rosé.
Nutritional Benefits
The almond mushroom is well known for its medicinal properties. Research has shown that it may stimulate the immune system and offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Additional research animal and cellular research has shown it to offer anticancer properties, though more research needs to be done on humans. Clinical animal and cellular research showed positive results in the mushrooms effect in cases of colorectal and gynechological cancers, as well as cases of sarcoma, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, leukemia, stomach cancer, and prostate cancer. Other clinical research indicates that the mushroom can lower blood sugar and control insulin, as well as lower blood cholesterol.
Selecting and Buying
Choosing:
	Select mushrooms that are firm with a fresh, smooth appearance. They should appear plump and firm without signs of dryness. Almond mushrooms are often cultivated in home gardens, but look for them at farmer's markets and in specialty grocery stores. They also come in dried form, such as in capsules, and in liquid form so check your local health food store or online.
Preparation and Use
The sweet, delicate flavor of the almond mushroom make it a food-friendly and versatile ingredient in a number of dishes. Try it in soups and stews, pasta, meat and fish, in sauces, even as a tea. The liquid or dried encapsulated form can be taken as directed as a daily supplement.
Conserving and Storing
Store fresh mushrooms in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.