Baby Bella Mushrooms

Known by Three Names, Loved By All

Whatever you call them, these mushrooms are one grocery item you can count on for a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal — without the worry that they’ll spoil as quickly as other produce items.

Baby Bellas are similar to other crowd favorites in the Brown mushroom family, like our Portabella and Portabellini® mushrooms. You’ll find them packaged to give you choices, including whole and sliced, organic, and high vitamin D.

So, what’s this about three names?

Baby Bellas, Crimini, or Cremini mushrooms?

Did you know that White button mushrooms, Cremini, and Portabella mushrooms are all from the same mushroom species, Agaricus bisporus? White mushrooms are harvested earlier than Brown mushrooms, giving them a paler color, milder taste, and softer texture. Baby Bellas are more mature than White mushrooms, while Portabellas are the largest and most mature.

The term “Baby Bella” highlights that these Brown mushrooms are less mature due to the earlier harvest. The word “Cremini” (alternatively, “Crimini”) may be derived from the Italian word “crema”, possibly referring to the the fact that they have a richer, creamier color than White mushrooms.

Potassium

Potassium aids in the maintenance of normal fluid and mineral balance, which helps control blood pressure. It also plays a role in making sure nerves and muscles, including the heart, function properly. 2

2. US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service, Nutrient Data Laboratory. USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Legacy. Version Current: April 2018. Internet: http://www.ars.usda.gov/nutrientdata

B Vitamins

Riboflavin helps with the production of hormones and also plays an important role in the nervous system. Niacin helps maintain healthy red blood cells. Pantothenic acid promotes healthy skin and makes sure the digestive and nervous systems function properly. 2

Are Baby Bella mushrooms good for you?

Baby Bella mushroom nutrition is impressive, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet! Their rich umami flavor can help reduce salt intake in recipes, supporting heart health — but that’s not all.

Benefits of Baby Bella mushrooms include:

Being low in calories while packed with essential nutrients
Good source of B vitamins, particularly riboflavin and niacin
Providing minerals like selenium and copper

How do I clean Baby Bellas?

When it comes to how to clean Baby Bella mushrooms, the process is simple and quick. Start by gently wiping them with a damp paper towel or soft brush to remove any dirt.

Avoid soaking them in water, as mushrooms are porous and can absorb excess moisture, affecting their texture and flavor. If they're particularly dirty, you can rinse them briefly under cool running water, but be sure to pat them dry immediately afterward. Remember, cleaning mushrooms just before you're ready to use them is best.

Check out these expert tips about preparing mushrooms.

What are the best ways to cook Baby Bellas?

There are many delicious ways how to cook Baby Bella mushrooms. They're incredibly versatile and can be prepared using various methods:

Sautéing: Slice and sauté them in a bit of oil or butter for a quick side dish or addition to pasta.
Roasting: Toss whole or halved Baby Bellas with olive oil and herbs, then roast for a rich, concentrated flavor.
Grilling: Their meaty texture makes them perfect for grilling, either whole or on skewers.
Stuffing: Their cup-like shape, when stems are removed, makes them ideal for stuffing with cheese, herbs, or other savory fillings.
Slicing raw: Add thin slices to salads for an earthy topping.

Remember, Baby Bellas have a robust flavor that stands up well to various cuisines and cooking methods, so don't be afraid to experiment!

Where can I find great Baby Bella mushroom recipes?

Keep up with our most recent recipes — follow us on Instagram!

You’ll also find amazing recipes on our Spore to Table recipe blog, ranging from “meat and mushroom” to vegan options.

And for one last place to find great recipes, we recommend our friends at the Mushroom Council, who regularly provide great recipes like this Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Baby Bella “Bacon” Bits.