In every civilization, mushrooms have always played a very important role in popular tradition, folklore, medical/healing practices and gastronomy. Since ancient times, these mysterious organisms have aroused curiosity and admiration, often connected to the magical and supernatural sphere, becoming protagonists of myths, legends, fairy tales and, of course, tables all over the world. Mushrooms were already known and used in the prehistoric And protohistoric. Numerous archaeological findings suggest that some species were used to light fires, as disinfectants and medicines thanks to their antibiotic and antiseptic properties. Furthermore, some cave paintings indicate that certain mushrooms were used in magical and religious rites.
The psychotropic properties of some mushrooms capable of generating significant alterations in consciousness and sensoriality were a way to directly contact the divinity, to understand its will and to obtain part of its powers.
In the Greek mythologymushrooms were a symbol of life and regeneration. A legend tells of how the hero Perseusquenching his thirst with the water collected from the cap of a large mushroom, decided to found the city of on the site Mycenaewhose name in the language of Homer meant precisely mushroom. In Roman times, although they were widely consumed and appreciated, mushrooms acquired a sinister connotation, often becoming a symbol of death, associated with episodes of poisoning, such as the one in which the emperor Claudius lost his life after eating some during a banquet. Pliny the Elder, in his Natural Historyattempted to describe its dangerous effects.
During the Middle Agesmushrooms were often associated with magic and witches, who in the popular imagination used them to create filters and potions. However, they continued to be appreciated on a culinary level. In this period, knowledge of mushrooms was enriched thanks to the studies of botanists and naturalists. In Renaissancethe Italians Mattioli and Ermolao Barbaro attempted to classify mushrooms with scientific criteria, debunking many myths and legends. With the advent of the modern age, mushrooms began to be studied with greater scientific rigor. The growing knowledge allowed us to understand their nature, properties, positive or negative effects, and their possible value in enriching and flavoring dishes.
In Europemushrooms became increasingly popular in cooking, thanks also to their versatility and their unique flavour, becoming fundamental ingredients of many traditional dishes.Italy in particular, with its biodiversity and its multiple ecosystems, it offers the perfect conditions and habitats for many species of edible and valuable mushrooms. Among the most appreciated varieties we find the porcini mushroomThe truffle (which is not a tuber as many people think) the chanterelle and many others. Mushrooms play a prominent role in Italian culinary tradition, present in numerous regional recipes. From the exquisite and iconic porcini mushroom risotto to pasta alla norcina made unique by truffles, mushrooms are the undisputed protagonists of Italian cuisine.
Highly sought after and loved, they can reach such a value that they are truly considered the gold of the undergrowth. As in the case of the exceptional and highly fragrant white truffle of Alba, capable of giving the palate unparalleled experiences, which is sold by the gram with prices often similar to those of precious metals. In addition to their gastronomic value, some mushrooms are appreciated for their beneficial properties. Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, mushrooms are considered a healthy and nutritious food. Mycotherapy, an Ayurvedic discipline, uses mushrooms for their healing properties, inspired by the ancient methods of traditional Chinese medicine that for thousands of years has used varieties with prodigious effects such as shitake, which in recent years has also begun to be known in the West.
The history of mushrooms in gastronomy is a fascinating journey that spans millennia and entire civilizations.
From a symbol of life or death to a delicious and healthy ingredient, mushrooms continue to amaze and delight with their unique flavor. Whether it’s a dish gourmet or a simple home recipe, mushrooms remain an invaluable treasure of our culinary tradition.