As more and more people are becoming health conscious, healthier substitutes to meat are always being introduced.

Mushrooms are a great source of potassium, riboflavin, niacin, and selenium. Aside from that, they are ideal for those trying to manage their weight as mushrooms are around eighty to ninety percent water.

Also, mushrooms are very versatile. From Vegetarian Nutrition:

Today, mushrooms are enjoyed for their flavor and texture. They can impart their own flavor to food or take on the flavor of other ingredients. Their flavor normally intensifies during cooking, and their texture holds up well to usual cooking methods, including stir-frying and sauteing.

It is popular to add mushrooms to soups, salads, and sandwiches, or to use them as an appetizer. They also add an appealing touch to vegetable-based casseroles and stews. In the US, mushroom extracts are increasingly being used in nutraceutical products and sports drinks.

Mushroom burgers have become a popular food item recently. Here is a simple recipe for you to try. From American Food:

Ingredients:

* 3 tbsp olive oil
* 1 1/2 lb mushrooms, roughly chopped (combination of crimini, shiitake, and Portobello)
* 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
* 6 cloves minced garlic
* 2/3 cup rolled oats
* 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan
* 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
* 2 eggs, beaten
* 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, or 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
* 1 tsp dried oregano
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper

Preparation:

Heat 1 tbsp oil in large saucepan. Saute the mushrooms, onions and garlic over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until the liquid boils off, and the mushrooms begin to saute.

In large bowl, add mushroom mixture to oats, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, oregano, salt and pepper. Mix well. Allow to sit for 15 minutes to develop the flavors. Shape into patties. Heat 2 tbsp oil in large non-stick skillet, over medium heat. Fry patties, cooking about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Serve with your favorite burger toppings.

The recipe yields about four to six burger patties.