What Makes Mushroom Powder So Versatile

There are numerous types of mushrooms that can be cooked in a variety of ways according to different dishes. From the common button-style that add an earthy flavor to pizza toppings or an omelet, or the porcini variety that adds a subtle nutty flavor to risotto, to a substantial portobello that can be used as a replacement for meat. Over the past five years or so, mushrooms, most notably consumed in the form of a powder, have become a bigger part of people's diets, as noted by The Guardian.

A major reason they've gained a dedicated following is that word got out to health enthusiasts that consuming them include benefits that may range from improved immune function to anti-aging effects, reports Om Mushroom. Plus, mushroom powder can boost the taste of many foods. According to My Recipes, what makes including mushroom powder in dishes so amazing is that it adds a depth of flavor without changing the texture of the food.

As reported by Bon Appétit, mushroom powder has numerous uses including steeping it into a broth or adding it to sauces, soups, and more, but the powder has uses beyond utilizing culinary mushrooms that elevate your favorite dishes. One example of using functional or medicinal mushrooms is mushroom coffee, which has gained popularity in recent years. This coffee drink is a blend of medicinal mushroom extracts in a powder form and coffee beans that results in a beverage that's lower in caffeine than the traditional brew, with the added health benefits from mushrooms, per HealthLine.

Mushroom powders are available at health food and grocery stores, as well as online. Or if you're the make it yourself type, making mushroom powder at home is a straightforward process. Per Inspired Taste, making mushroom powder is as simple as transforming dried mushrooms in a blender or food processor until they're a fine powder. If you've never tried it, it may be worth exploring the versatility of mushroom powder for the added flavor and health benefits it promises.