If you are interested in learning more about the Cantharellus cibarius mushroom, also popularly known as chanterelle, cashew or chanterelle, you are in the right place.
It is one of the most famous edible mushrooms and can be found in forests all over the world. and is highly valued in the kitchen.
Being a wild and popular mushroom, it has numerous names depending on the area in which it is found.
For example, it is known as inferti in Italian, girote in French, Chanterelle in English. It is a very easy to recognize and edible mushroom. Once you do it you will not confuse it with another species.
It has two very particular characteristics, its shape and color, that distinguish it from all the others. Also It has a delicate and fruity flavor that delights many palates.
In this article, we will discuss its most common characteristics and the best ways to care for it so you can enjoy its delicious flavor.
What is the Cantharellus cibarius mushroom?
The Cantharellus cibarius mushroom is a fungus that belongs to the chanterelle mushroom family that grows during the summer and early autumn.
It is a medium-sized mushroom with a characteristic appearance due to its intense yellow color, and At the top it has a funnel-shaped hat.
The cap part also has various shades depending greatly on the soil in which it grows. The tones can range from whitish to orange, passing through all shades of yellow.
Its texture is wavy, and its meat is very consistent and thick, which gives it a unique structure. This delicious mushroom has a mild, fruity flavor with a hint of pepper, making it an ideal choice for any dish.
Ideal growing conditions
Before caring for the Cantharellus cibarius mushroom, it is important to take into account a few considerations. First, it should be noted that this species of mushroom is usually grown in its native environment, which makes it difficult to cultivate in most home gardens.
However, you should not be discouraged, as There are still some methods that can be effective for the care of the fungus. Once you have taken a few considerations into account, there are several steps you can take to ensure successful care of this fungus.
This species of edible mushroom needs a lot of humidity, so after heavy rains they will appear in abundance.
To prosper, too needs a clay soil well marked, free of weeds and other forms of plant life.
In addition, it is very important that the area is humid, but not saturated, since needs to have the ideal temperature and humidity level.
These growing conditions can help provide the fungus with the right environment that can ensure the best results.
Organic matter in the soil
Another important consideration when caring for the Cantharellus cibarius mushroom is the need for have high organic matter in the soil.
This would be the material found on the ground and that can provide essential nutrients that help ensure the growth and prosperity of the fungus.
Typically, a good source of organic matter would be plants such as leaf litter and wood, which can provide the nutrients needed for them to thrive.
How to clean and preserve mushrooms?
We can find them at the end of spring and beginning of summer, depending largely on the rainfall during these months. Production generally lasts throughout the fall. and in some places they continue growing until the beginning of winter.
The next step to take into account would be to know the best methods to clean and preserve the mushroom since it is ideal for use in the kitchen.
As a valuable food source, it is important clean the mushroom properly and safely so you can enjoy it without any harmful side effects.
For cooking, it has a delicious, consistent meat and a special texture. Due to its fibrous consistency, it is not attacked by larvae and insects. It has an aroma similar to dried apricots and a sweet taste. For this reason it is highly appreciated in kitchens around the world.
Cleaning recommendations
It is recommended to lightly brush the mushroom with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or residue and then store it in a cool, dry place. As this is a delicate mushroom, it is important to handle it carefully to avoid injury.
Avoid cleaning chanterelles by placing them under the tap. since they can absorb excess water and when cooked they will be too soft and spongy.
After cleaning the dirt we can store it in the refrigerator for several days without losing its consistency, but we must dry it and place it in a closed container like a Tupperware since it lasts quite a while.
Another great option is to dehydrate it, but it loses some of its consistency, texture and flavour. In this way, you can obtain the powder and use it as a seasoning for many recipes and give it an extraordinary flavour.
One of the best options is to freeze the chanterelles, This way they can be vacuum-packed and used for many recipes. This way they keep their texture better, the only thing is that they have to be defrosted before cooking.
Cantharellus cibarius and its uses in cooking
It is a mushroom with a very pleasant flavor and can be used stewed, preserved or dried. It can be an ideal accompaniment to meats.
There is no danger of poisoning, since for it to become toxic you would have to eat hundreds of kilos.
There are many recipes to prepare them, whether with garlic, with meat, sautéed, grilled, in fritters, scrambled, they are very easy to prepare and the results are excellent.
They are one of the most popular mushrooms in Spanish cuisine due to their great flavour and versatility.
The Cantharellus cibarius mushroom is an edible mushroom with a delicious, fruity flavor. There are several steps to take to properly care for the mushroom and keep it in good condition.
It requires ideal growing conditions, high organic matter and proper cleaning to ensure the best results. With the care and attention it requires on your part, it is possible to grow it and enjoy it as a delicious ingredient in your favorite dishes.