Fungi Fever: The Wild World of Mushroom Hunting
Mycologists have recorded over 20,000 mushroom species around the globe
Hello fellow foragers and wild food lovers,
This month I promised to dedicate some time to the fascinating fungi of the world. When I first began foraging I didn’t realise that you could get so lost down the mushroom rabbit hole that it is hard to think about the other wild goodies. However, the weird and wonderful world of fungi is a delight to explore. First things first, don’t be afraid to get stuck in. Due to the vast number of varieties (Over 20,000 and counting) many people don’t know where to start when it comes to fungi. Also, nicknames like Death Cap and Devils Tooth doesn’t help the humble mushroom’s reputation.
Don’t be fooled to think that mushrooms are reserved for the mycologists of the world. Fungi, in all of its funny forms, is there for all of us to discover. I wouldn’t describe myself as a mycologist by any means but I have studied, hunted and picked various species of mushrooms. The most delightful thing about mushroom education is that it never stops, is constantly involving and often surprising. Mushrooms are a not so rare part of the natural life around us. Like many herbs, the scent will guide you on the right path.
Did you know that plants and trees have an underground network made of mycellium that feed off mushrooms? These networks work to repair damaged earth and allow the trees to communicate with eachother. Each variety is unique, playful and connected to the environment in different ways. For example, the Earthstar is so called because it reacts to the humidity in the air. When the air is dry, the four points fold in to protect it and when it is moist they open up to soak up the atmosphere. I know, amazing!
I remember the first time I found morels, the intricate detail of its carefully placed skirt resembled something of a high end fashion runway and here it was in the wild. If you want to be inspired creatively or for the world of design then mushroom hunting in a local forest is the place to be. Although there are annual reports of fatalities when eating mushrooms in some location and lethal varieties do exist as long as you stand by the motto “If in doubt leave it out” then your basket shouldn’t have anything that can cause damage. This months newsletter is all about shrooms. Let’s get stuck in…
What's in The Forager’s October newsletter
Mushroom Hunting 101: A Beginner's Guide
Identifying Edible v's Poisonous Mushrooms
Penny Bun aka Porcini Pasta Recipe
Food for thought: What I’ve been reading
Paid Subscribers Only
I want to sincerely thank my paid subscribers who have bought me a cuppa or two so I’ve added extra tips for them that include:
Best places to search and find Penny Buns
Gearing up for the hunt: Essential Mushroom hunting equipment
Interesting Fungi Facts to ponder
Mushroom Hunting Calendar: Your Guide to mushrooms for all seasons
My top 3 favourite wild mushroom recipes
Mushroom Hunting 101: A Short Beginners Guide
Now that you have decided to go on a hunt its time to learn the basics of discovering mushrooms. This short guide will give you some initial tips and allow you to get started safely, always looking out for the right kind of shrooms.
Safety is key
Education: Before you embark on your mushroom hunting adventure, educate yourself. Study field guides, join local mycological clubs, or take classes to learn about the different species and their characteristics.
Mushroom Identification: Always positively identify a mushroom before consuming it. Some wild mushrooms are toxic and can be deadly if ingested. If you stumbleupon something unique but you are not fully sure about the gills or if its edible learn how to do a spore test here.
Location, Location, Location: Hunt in areas that are safe, legal, and free from pollution. I must admit I have ran from a farmer or two here in Ireland but its all in the name of connecting with nature ;) National parks may have regulations regarding foraging, so be sure to check.
Leave No Trace: Always treat the environment with respect. Only take what you can use, and leave no trace of your presence.
Essential Tools for Hunting Shrooms
Basket or Bag: A basket or breathable bag is essential for collecting mushrooms without trapping moisture, which can make them go bad quickly.
Pocket Knife or Small Brush: Use a knife to gently cut or dig mushrooms out of the ground to avoid damaging the mycelium or surrounding flora. A small brush helps remove dirt and debris.
Field Guide: Carry a field guide or a mushroom identification app to help you identify the species you find. Smartphone apps like iNaturalist can be very useful. Also, I find the local library is a great resource (and free).
Container for Spore Prints: To aid in identification, bring small containers or paper for creating spore prints.
Popular Mushrooms to Hunt For include…
Morel Mushrooms: Morels are highly sought-after for their distinctive honeycomb appearance and nutty flavor. They are often found in wooded areas in the spring.
Chanterelles: These golden-yellow mushrooms have a fruity, peppery flavor and can be found in both coniferous and deciduous forests.
Porcini Mushrooms: Also known as king boletes, porcinis are prized for their nutty flavor and are commonly found near pine or oak trees.
Chicken of the Woods: These bright orange or yellow shelf-like mushrooms grow on hardwood trees. They have a lemony, chicken-like flavor.
Shaggy Mane: Easily recognizable by its shaggy appearance, this mushroom is known for its distinctive, inky cap that can turn into a gooey black mess as it matures.
Top Tips for Beginners
Season Matters: Different mushrooms appear at various times of the year. Research when specific species are in season in your region.
Habitat Awareness: Learn to recognize the type of habitat where each species thrives. For example, some mushrooms prefer deciduous forests, while others prefer coniferous woods.
Take Photos: Capture high-quality photos of the mushrooms you find. These can be invaluable for later identification or to share with experts.
Ask for Help: If you're unsure about a mushroom's identification, consult an experienced mycologist or use online forums dedicated to mushroom identification.
Mushroom hunting is a fascinating and rewarding hobby, but it comes with its share of risks. Remember that safety and responsible foraging practices should always be your top priorities. As you gain experience, your knowledge of mushroom species and your ability to identify them will improve, making your mushroom hunting adventures all the more enjoyable.
A Short Guide to Identifying Edible vs. Poisonous Wild Mushrooms
Introduction:
Mushroom foraging can be so much fun but distinguishing between edible and poisonous mushrooms can sometimes be tricky. Safety is paramount when identifying wild fungi. This short guide provides essential tips to help you make informed choices while foraging for wild mushrooms.
Education is Key: Start with a Field Guide
Before you venture into the wild, equip yourself with a reliable field guide or mushroom identification app. These resources include detailed descriptions, images, and information about various mushroom species, helping you recognize both safe and toxic varieties. The Collins Fungi guide can be found in most libraries.
Learn the Basics: Mushroom Anatomy
Understanding the basic parts of a mushroom is crucial for identification:
Cap: The top part, which varies in shape, color, and texture.
Gills or Pores: Located underneath the cap, these structures are essential for identification.
Stipe (or Stem): The central stalk that supports the cap.
Spore Print: Obtained by placing the cap, gills down, on a white piece of paper to reveal the color of the spores.
Focus on Edible Varieties First
As a beginner, focus on a few easily recognizable edible mushrooms first and learn everything you can about them. Some beginner-friendly options include puff balls, Chanterelles, Morels, and Chicken of the Woods. Learn to identify these before moving on to more complex mushrooms.
Avoid Look-Alikes
Many poisonous mushrooms resemble edible ones closely. For example, the toxic Amanita phalloides looks remarkably similar to the edible Agaricus campestris. Pay attention to unique identifying features, such as color, size, and shape, to distinguish between them.
Spore Print Color Matters
Obtaining a spore print can be a valuable tool for identification. Some mushroom species have distinct spore print colors. For example, a white spore print is common among Agaricus mushrooms, while Amanita species typically produce white or pale yellow spore prints.
Seek Expert Guidance
If you're unsure about a mushroom's edibility, don't take risks. Consult with an experienced mycologist or a local mushroom foraging club. These experts can offer guidance and help identify mushrooms safely.
Avoid Common Myths
Be cautious of myths such as "poisonous mushrooms turn silver when a silver spoon is placed in the cooking pot." These are unreliable and potentially dangerous methods of determining edibility.
Start Slowly
When trying a new edible species for the first time, consume a small amount and wait 24 hours to ensure you don't experience adverse reactions. Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to certain mushrooms.
Stay Informed and Updated
Mushroom identification is an ongoing learning process. New species are discovered, and taxonomies change. Stay updated with the latest information and revisions to ensure safe foraging.
Wild Recipe: Creamy Porcini
Ingredients
1 cup of dried porcini mushrooms
1 1/2 cups boiling water
1/2 cup baby button mushrooms, finely sliced
2 medium cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 pound fresh tagliatelle pasta
1/2 cup crème fraîche
1/2 cup of dry white wine
Finely chopped parsley leaves and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
Step 1: Soak the Porcini Magic
Begin by placing the dried porcini mushrooms in a heatproof bowl.Pour the boiling water over them, making sure they're all nicely submerged in the hot bath. Let them soak for about 20 minutes or until they're softened. They'll plump up like little sponges, ready to infuse your dish with deep, earthy flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Baby Buttons
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. It's time to start sautéing those baby button mushrooms. Toss in the finely sliced garlic and the baby button mushrooms, and let them sizzle and dance for about 5 minutes until they're golden brown and aromatic. Season them with a pinch of kosher salt and a generous twist of black pepper. These mushrooms love a little seasoning.
Step 3: Pasta
While your mushrooms are getting all cozy, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fresh tagliatelle pasta to the boiling water and cook until it's al dente, following the package instructions. Don't forget to save a cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 4: The Creamy sauce
Back to the skillet of golden mushrooms: Pour in the dry white wine and let it bubble and reduce by half. That's the secret to making the sauce extra elegant! Drain the soaked porcini mushrooms but don't throw away that liquid; we'll need it. Chop the porcinis and add them to the skillet. Stir in the crème fraîche for a velvety touch of creaminess.
Now, bring together the cooked tagliatelle pasta and the creamy mushroom sauce. It's a match made in pasta heaven. Sprinkle the dish generously with finely chopped parsley and a good amount of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Share the food, share the love, share the recipe!
Buon appetito!
What I’ve Been Reading and Watching…
The VICE guide to Microdosing - https://www.vice.com/en/article/v7bxmx/how-to-microdose-mushrooms-psilocybin-vice-guide
John Muir’s Yosemite - https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/john-muirs-yosemite-10737/
How Trees Talk to Eachother - https://www.ted.com/talks/suzanne_simard_how_trees_talk_to_each_other?referrer=playlist-reconnect_with_nature&autoplay=true