Usually we think of mushrooms as vegetables but they are actually a fungi.  There are over 14,000 types of mushrooms but only about 3,000 varieties are edible.  The flavor of mushrooms intensifies during cooking.  Although they add to the flavor of a dish they also take on the flavors of the other ingredients in the recipe.  Mushrooms are 80-90% water and are therefore are very low in calories.

 

Portobello mushrooms are one of the most commonly eaten mushrooms in the U.S.  There large umbrella shaped cap and meaty texture encourages grilling, baking or stir fries.  Many people use portobellos as a "meat substitute" for burgers or sandwiches.  In one portobello cap there are only 42 calories, no fat, 8g of carbohydrate, 4g of protein and 2g of fiber.

 

Portobello mushrooms can be found at the grocery store year round.  They are best if used soon after purchasing.  To store, put in a brown paper bag in the fridge for up to 7-10 days.  When cleaning simply wipe with a damp paper towel.  If you chose to wash them do not do so until right before cooking them, or the "meat" of the mushroom will be damaged.