Wild Orange Mushrooms

The energy of the color Orange

Foraging Orange Mushrooms

There are a wide variety of edible Summer mushrooms, of all shapes, sizes & colors, available in Northeast Pennsylvania. This article will focus on 2 of the most frequently sought after edible ORANGE mushrooms, including Chanterelle (Cantharellus) & Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus Sulphureus). The energy associated with the color orange is associated with the Sacral Chakra & creativity.

1. Chanterelle (Cantharellus)

1. Appearance: There are many varieties of Chanterelles. This article will refer to the most frequently sought after type, known as Smooth Chanterelle (Cantharellus Lateritius). Smooth chanterelles are somewhat funnel shaped & do not have true gills, but rather they have a veined underside with a decurrent pattern. They range in color from pale yellow to deep orange. They may have a somewhat wavy & waxy appearance. The inside of Chanterelle resembles string cheese.

2. Habitat: They typically grow on the forest floor, rather than on trees, but often near hardwoods, in various climates around the world. They have a mycorrhizal relationship with trees, meaning they form mutually beneficial partnerships with tree roots. I often find them near Oak trees.

3. Flavor and Aroma: Chanterelles are highly regarded for their delicate, nutty, unique flavor. They have a slightly fruity aroma reminiscent of apricots or peaches.

4. Nutritional Value: They are low in calories but rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin D (especially when exposed to sunlight), potassium, and various B vitamins. They also contain notable amounts of antioxidants.

5. Culinary Uses: Chanterelles are a favorite among both chefs and home cooks. They can be sautéed, fried, or roasted to bring out their flavor, and they pair well with a wide range of dishes including pasta, risotto, eggs, and meats like chicken or pork. Like all wild foods, only consume a small portion to test your individual tolerance, which may change over time. ALWAYS COOK WILD MUSHROOMS THOROUGHLY. Never consume raw wild mushrooms.

6. Preservation: Fresh chanterelles can be preserved by drying or freezing. Dried chanterelles can be rehydrated and used similarly to fresh ones in cooking.
   

2. Chicken of the Woods (COW) (Laetiporus Sulphureus)

1. Appearance: Chicken of the Woods mushrooms typically grow in large, overlapping clusters on the trunks or stumps of trees, often dead hardwoods such as Oak. They have a shelf-like form with bright colors ranging from yellow -orange. There are different varieties of edible COW, with undersides ranging in color from yellow to white. COW do not have gills, but rather they have pores.

2. Habitat: They are primarily found in temperate forests around the world, often appearing during late summer and early autumn. They are saprotrophic fungi, meaning they primarily obtain nutrients from decomposing wood.

3. Texture and Flavor: When cooked, Chicken of the Woods mushrooms have a texture similar to chicken breast, hence their name. They are tender and juicy with a mild, slightly acidic or tangy flavor. The texture can be chewy or soft depending on the age of the mushroom.

4. Nutritional Value: They are low in fat and calories but contain significant amounts of protein, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals such as potassium and selenium.

5. Culinary Uses: Chicken of the Woods mushrooms are versatile in the kitchen, and can be used in place of chicken meat in many dishes. They can be sautéed, grilled, roasted, or used in soups, stews, and stir-fries. Their meaty texture makes them a popular meat substitute for vegetarian dishes. They can be tough for some individuals to digest & should be very thoroughly cooked. I like to boil them twice, with clean water each time. On the third boil, I use chicken stock to infuse flavor.

6. Identification: Proper identification is crucial when foraging for orange mushrooms such as Chicken of the Woods, due to potential confusion with toxic species such as Jack O' Lantern (Omphalotus Illudens).

DO NOT CONFUSE WITH THIS TOXIC ORANGE MUSHROOM!

Jack O' Lantern (Omphalotus Illudens)

• Jacks are often found in clusters on rotting wood. Keep in mind that sometimes the wood may be buried beneath the surface.

• Jacks have true gills that run down the stem.

• Jacks may have a slight bioluminescence glow at night.

• They are orange on the inside. The spore prints can range from white to creamy pale yellow.

• Jacks are toxic. They are not deadly, though you may wish you were dead for a few days. Be aware that sometimes Mother Nature throws tricks at us & these toxic look-a-likes may be growing in near proximity to the above noted edible mushrooms. ALWAYS BE 100% CERTAIN OF THE IDENTIFICATION WHEN INGESTING WILD MUSHROOMS.
  

Fungirl's Funguide, by Connected Fungirl Wellness

The author of this article has published a basic field guide for beginners, titled, Fungirl's Funguide: Favorite Wild Mushrooms of PA, A Guide for Beginners. This book is available on Amazon, and online at www.connectedfungirl.com. A more comprehensive field guide is also recommended.

For more information about the various products & services offered, or to place an order, visit www.connectedfungirl.com.