"AmyMcdaniel" news and stories

Based on studies conducted on mice, mushrooms can protect the immune system. But, can they strengthen our immunity? A recent report from Reuters explains that the most common and inexpensive mushroom, the white button mushroom, had the strongest "immune-boosting effects." Dr. Keith Martin of Arizona State University goes as far as stating that these fungi are "powerhouses for boosting the immune system."

Assuming that these studies apply to humans, this is great news for those of you who are already taking mushroom extracts as dietary supplements. Scientific studies also reveal that mushrooms may help increase the immune system's ability to fight tumors. So, just how many mushrooms would we have to consume to reap these health benefits? Martin explains that to get the equivalent amount of mushrooms consumed by the mice in the study, a person would need to eat about 100 grams (3.5 ounces). That's roughly two and a half cups of raw mushrooms -- daily.

It's time to start thinking of the many ways to incorporate mushrooms into your diet. Fellow blogger, Amy McDaniel, recently posted about a delicious dish of jasmine brown rice and barley pilaf with mushrooms and pearl onions. What are some of your favorite mushroom dishes?

When new bloggers join the Slashfood team, we like to make sure they get a proper introduction to our readers. You've met Gretchen Roberts, Eric Diesel, Mike Pomranz, and Annie Scott. Now meet the latest addition to our team, Amy McDaniel.

Do you have a personal blog?
That's kind of personal question. And, no.

What is your day job, or rather, what do you do when you're not food blogging?
I do some freelance writing for Saveur, and I'm working on my first book. Somewhat more profitably, I teach English at a small liberal arts college. Hmm, I wonder if my students ever google me. Should I censor myself on Slashfood?

How long have you been blogging with Slashfood and what is your favorite post?
This is my third or fourth post. My favorite so far is the one that mentions Alice B. Toklas because someone referred to her recipe for Hashish Brownies in the comments this one (upon reflection).

Do you have any non-food-related, non-blogging hobbies?
I co-host a poetry and fiction reading series in Atlanta with an impolite name.

Not every foodie does, so we have to ask: Do you cook?
Why yes. Earlier this week I made dinner for one: roasted halibut with shitake-miso broth and udon noodles. When I entertain, I either go all out, which usually involves charcuterie, or for something more casual I stick to my grandmother's southern recipes.

What is your most prized utensil/gadget in the kitchen?
A wooden spoon that belonged to my great-grandmother.