as their name suggests, have caps opened out flat, exposing the rich, dark gills. Small flats are sometimes known as breakfast mushrooms. Medium-sized flats are sometimes known as barbecue mushrooms (although any mushroom is great on the barbie). Jumbo flats are the large version and a recent addition to the mushrooms on offer. These beauties can be a meal in themselves.
Flat mushrooms should not be confused with field mushrooms, although their appearance and flavour are similar. Flats have an intense, robust, almost ‘meaty’ flavour, with a dense, spongy texture slightly softer than cups and buttons. Like cups, flats are best served cooked. Try roasting or barbecuing them whole. Sliced, they make sensational tempura and diced they produce the most intense colour and flavoured soup, tapenade and sauce.
