You see a lot of mushrooms around but you are scared to forage them because you are not sure if they are poisonus???
Don't worry! Im going to show you how to recognise edible delicious Parasol Mushroom from other lookalike poisonous mushrooms.
If you are not 100% sure that you found edible mushroom, don't risk it! LEAVE IT where you found it and specially DON'T EAT IT!
You can always consult your mushroom findings in local pharmacy or send it to do special diagnostic to be absolutely sure that the mushrooms you found are 100% eadiable.
Health benefits
Parasol mushrooms have a high nutritional value. They pack good amounts of protein, B-vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients such as iron, zinc, potassium, and copper. There are not many studies regarding the medicinal properties of these mushrooms. However, a couple of studies have found that Parasol mushroom extracts, in particular, may help fight cancer cells and show anti-microbial activity, which aids the immune system’s capacity to fight microbial infections.
How to identify Parasol Mushroom
Location
Parasol mushroom grow in open-space grassy areas and they feed on dead organic matter but unlike other mushroom species, they are not very closely attached to hardwood trees. They favor well-drained soil and are often spotted alone or in small clusters of (on average) 3 to 5 mushrooms.
In the U.K. and Europe, Parasol mushrooms can be found from July to early November with the peak season being late August to September.
There is 3 main differences indicating that you found edible Parasol mushroom
COMPARISON
PARASOL MUSHROOM / Macrolepiota procera | A POISONOUS MUSHROOM SIMILAR IN APPEARANCE |
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2. Parasol mushroom has a hollow stem | 2. Poisonous mushroom has a full stem |
3. Parasol mushroom has a loose/mobile ring | 3. Poisonous mushroom has a connected ring |
How To Cook Them
Parasol mushrooms have a distinctive smell and taste that resemble that of maple syrup. This is because it’s sweet and tarty at the same time. The best ways to cook and enjoy them is using just a hat.
Method:
Put the hat in to the flower, then egg and bread crumbs and on hot frying pan with butter. Fry until golden. Salt and pepper to taste.
Parasol mushroom and perfect for soups, sauces, and dry as a powder.
Watch the video below - How to identify Parasol Mushroom
You can find out more about mushrooms in my ebook "Guide for beginner mushroom forager" What you need to know about mushroms.
Check this out!
You can purchase my AlpineDotTEAS at the One Tree at a Time shop in Bozel or you can contact me directly via AlpineDottea Facebook page or through the website.
Enjoy!