Crimini mushrooms are the immature form of portabella mushrooms. With their coffee color, meaty texture and rich flavor, crimini mushrooms provide more nutrients than the more common white button mushroom.

Crimini mushrooms are an excellent source of selenium and riboflavin and contain the phytonutrients beta-glucan and L-ergothioneine.

Look for mushrooms that are firm, plump and clean. Store mushrooms in the refrigerator, either placed in a loosely closed paper bag, wrapped in a damp cloth or laid out in a glass dish that is covered with a moist cloth. Mushrooms that are purchased prepackaged can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in their original container. Dried mushrooms should be stored in a tightly sealed container in either the refrigerator or freezer, where they will stay fresh for six months to one year.