Types of mushroom available in Nepal
Nepal is home to a diverse range of mushrooms due to its varied climate and geographical diversity. Some of the different types of mushrooms found in Nepal include:
Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus spp.): सिपी च्याउ (Sipi Chyau) - These are widely cultivated and found in various parts of Nepal. They grow on dead and decaying wood and are popular for their taste and texture.
Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinula edodes): शीताके च्याउ (Shiitake Chyau) - Although originally from East Asia, Shiitake mushrooms are now cultivated in Nepal and are known for their rich flavor.
Button Mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus): बटन च्याउ (Button Chyau) - These are among the most commonly cultivated mushrooms in Nepal. They are widely used in cooking due to their mild flavor.
Morel Mushrooms (Morchella spp.): गुच्छी च्याउ (Guchhi Chyau) - Found in the wild, morels are highly prized for their unique taste and are often harvested in the spring.
Chanterelle Mushrooms (Cantharellus spp.): पिरोला च्याउ (Pirola Chyau) - These mushrooms are found in the wild and are known for their delicate flavor and fruity aroma.
Reishi Mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum): रेशी च्याउ (Reishi Chyau) - Known for their medicinal properties, Reishi mushrooms are used in traditional medicine and are also cultivated in Nepal.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): यार्सागुम्बा (Yarsagumba) - This is a rare and highly valued medicinal mushroom found in the high Himalayan regions of Nepal. It is known for its health benefits and is often used in traditional medicine.
Wood Ear Mushrooms (Auricularia auricula-judae): काग-च्याउ (Kag Chyau) - These mushrooms are found growing on trees and are commonly used in soups and salads.
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus): सिंहको थुप्रो च्याउ (Singhko Thupro Chyau) - Known for their unique appearance and potential health benefits, these mushrooms are also cultivated in Nepal.
Enoki Mushrooms (Flammulina velutipes): एनोकि च्याउ (Enoki Chyau) - These mushrooms are cultivated for their long, thin stems and mild flavor, often used in soups and salads.
Matsutake Mushrooms (Tricholoma matsutake): मत्सुताके च्याउ (Matsutake Chyau) - These are rare and highly valued mushrooms found in the forests of Nepal. They have a distinctive spicy aroma and are considered a delicacy.
Porcini Mushrooms (Boletus edulis): पोर्चिनी च्याउ (Porcini Chyau) - These mushrooms are found in the wild and are appreciated for their nutty flavor and firm texture.
These are just a few examples of the diverse mushroom species found in Nepal. The country's varied ecosystems provide a rich habitat for both wild and cultivated mushrooms.