Lamb Gourd is a widely used plant that grows in many regions of Turkey. The scientific name is “Cotyledon orbiculata”, the morel is an aquatic plant species and can usually grow up to 10-20 cm in height. Because of the navel-shaped leaves of the plant, it is called the lamb’s belly. Lamb’s belly has traditionally been used for a variety of health benefits, and in recent years it has also been explored by modern medicine. The leaves of the plant contain natural compounds that are thought to be good for a variety of health problems, from skin ailments to strengthening the immune system. For this reason, the morel plant is widely used in the production of medicinal and cosmetic products.
What is morel mushroom?
Lamb’s belly mushroom is a type of mushroom that got its name from its resemblance to a morel shape. The morel mushroom, scientific name Pleurotus eryngii, has a large, flat and fleshy body covered with a white or cream color. It also has a brown or black fleshy cap.
Lamb’s belly mushroom is very valuable in terms of taste and nutritional value. Mushrooms, which have a meaty and juicy texture, are rich in protein enough to replace meat and are also a low-calorie food. It is also a rich source of fiber, minerals and vitamins. Morel mushrooms are often used in cooking and can be prepared with different cooking methods. This type of mushroom, which enhances the flavor of the dishes, can also be preferred as a healthy and delicious food alternative.
What are the benefits of morel mushrooms?
Some of the health benefits of morel mushrooms are as follows:
- High protein content: Lamb’s belly mushroom contains high enough protein to be a meat substitute. Protein is important for the healthy functioning of muscles, bones and cells.
- Low calorie content: Morel mushrooms can aid weight control due to their low calorie content.
- Fiber content: Fiber is important for the healthy functioning of our digestive system, and morel mushrooms are rich in fiber.
- Antioxidant source: Morel mushrooms are an antioxidant-rich food. Antioxidants help keep our cells healthy by fighting free radicals in our body.
- Source of vitamins and minerals: Morel mushrooms contain various vitamins and minerals. It is especially rich in B vitamins, iron, magnesium and potassium.
- Strengthens the immune system: Morel mushrooms contain beta-glucans that strengthen the immune system. The fungus also has antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Because of these health benefits, morel mushrooms can be included in a healthy eating plan. However, if there is any health condition or if there is any doubt about mushroom consumption, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
Although lamb belly is an herb used in recipes, it actually provides more benefits when consumed raw. However, in some regions, its use in dishes is also common. Since the lamb belly leaves are raw and full of water, they are usually chopped into salads. In addition, it can be drunk by extracting the plant juice or used for skin care by placing it directly on the under-eye bags.
If you want to use lamb belly in your meal, you can chop the leaves and add them to soups, stews and vegetable dishes. Lamb belly can leave a slightly bitter taste during cooking, so it is recommended to use it in harmony with other spices. In addition, since the leaves of the plant are quite delicate, it is not recommended to cook for a long time. It is important to take care to preserve the nutritional values by cooking the lamb belly for a short time.
Where do morel mushrooms grow?
Morel mushroom is a type of mushroom that is widely grown around the world. It grows naturally, especially in parts of Europe, Asia and North America. In Turkey, the morel mushroom grows especially in regions such as İzmir, Manisa, Bursa, Ankara, Konya, Karaman, Isparta and Antalya.
Morel mushrooms usually grow under fruit trees, on the roots of oak, pine, walnut, hazelnut and chestnut trees. The mushroom, fed by a network of white mycelium lying under the ground, is harvested in spring and autumn. In addition to the wild morel mushroom, it is also commercially produced and especially grown using organic farming methods.
How to germinate a morel seed?
The seeds of the morel plant are small black or brown colored seeds and they play an important role in the plant’s reproductive cycle. Seeds occur after the small flowers that form at the tips of the leaves of the plant.
After the morel seeds are left to dry on the soil, they naturally shed and fall into the soil. Soil must be moist and temperatures must be suitable for seeds to germinate. Morel seeds can be grown in temperate climates and usually spring or autumn seasons are preferred for seeds to germinate. Morel seeds are used in some places to prevent soil erosion and can also be used in horticulture. However, since the production of the plant is mostly for the use of leaves, the use of seeds is not very common.
How to grow morel mushroom
Morel mushroom is a type of mushroom that can be grown commercially as well as being found in nature. First of all, a suitable environment must be prepared for the cultivation of the mushroom. Since the morel mushroom prefers moist and cool environments, special rooms are used for aquaculture. The substrate used in mushroom cultivation is usually organic materials such as wheat straw, rice straw, bran or coffee waste. After the substrate has been sterilized, fungal spores are planted and a suitable humidity and temperature is maintained for the growth of fungi. Morel mushrooms can be harvested in about 3-4 months.
Since morel mushroom cultivation can also be done with organic farming methods, it provides a healthy and natural mushroom to be obtained. Mushrooms grown using these methods can be more palatable and nutritious. However, since special knowledge and equipment is required for morel mushroom cultivation, it is recommended that people who will deal with this business first seek support from experts on the subject.
Where is the lamb belly located?
Lamb belly plant is a plant that grows naturally in many regions of Turkey. It is especially common in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions. But the plant can also grow in other countries and can be found in places like Australia, South Africa, New Zealand.
Lamb’s belly prefers hot and humid climates and is an aquatic plant. It is rarely seen in high altitude and dry areas. In Turkey, morel grows especially in forests and mountainous areas, on slopes and near water. The plant can grow above ground or in water and is often readily found in wetlands. It can also be grown in gardens or pots.
What is lamb’s ear fungus?
Lamb’s ear mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae) is a type of mushroom widely used in Asian cuisine. The name “lamb’s ear” derives from the shape of the mushroom that resembles a lamb’s ear. Also known as the “ear to Judas”. Lamb’s ear fungus generally prefers warm and humid climates and grows on trees or rotting wood. Mushrooms are considered a nutritious food and contain high levels of protein, fiber and iron. It is often used in recipes such as soups and sauteed dishes in Asian cuisine. In addition, lamb’s ear mushroom can be a preferred alternative for vegan and vegetarian diets.
What is morel mushroom?
Morel mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) is one of the most widely consumed mushroom species in the world. There are three different types, white, brown and orange. The white morel mushroom is the most popular and is usually characterized by a smooth white cap.
What is the nutritional value of morel mushrooms?
Morel mushrooms are a low-calorie food and contain many vitamins and minerals. Mushrooms are rich in many nutrients, including B vitamins, iron, copper, selenium, potassium and phosphorus.
How should we store the lamb’s belly mushroom?
You can store the lamb belly mushroom in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. But if you want to store it for a longer time, you can slice the mushrooms and freeze them in a dry environment.
What should be considered when cooking lamb belly mushrooms?
Morel mushrooms can become tough when cooked. For this reason, mushrooms should be cooked in a closed saucepan over low heat to preserve moisture. It is also important to leave enough space for the mushrooms to release their juices.
What dishes can be made with morel mushrooms?
Morel mushrooms can be used in salads, soups, sandwiches, pizzas and more. It can also be served sautéed, grilled or baked.