T'is the season... for mushrooms

It's a not-so known fact that October is the perfect time to enjoy one of the UK's favourite and healthiest vegetables - the mushroom.

Championed by Celebrity Chef, Ed Baines, the home-grown vegetable is in-season during the autumnal weeks, making it the perfect time to incorporate them into your cooking.

Chef Ed Baines said: "I have always been a huge fan of mushrooms as they are so versatile, tasty and good value for money. They are also great for adding flavour and substance to a dish. I have developed some family friendly recipes which are hearty, tasty and filling and suitable for feeding your friends and family on any occasion."

Mushrooms are a truly unique ingredient, as they can be prepared in so many different ways and used in countless dishes. And with a massive variety available - such as White, Chestnut, Portobello, Shiitake and Enoki Mushrooms - why not embrace the 'Month of Mushrooms' and try something new?

If the taste temptations aren't enough to lure you, then consider the health benefits.

1. Mushrooms are a natural source of B vitamins and minerals, with an 80g serving counting as one   of your 5-a-day

2. Mushrooms are a natural source of selenium which is part of the body's antioxidant defence system

3. They are naturally low in calories and fat

4. They are a good source of vitamin B5 which works in the body to help release energy from the food we eat

5. They are a natural source of folic acid

All-in-all, October, the 'Month of Mushrooms' expects to be an extremely tasty and healthy period.