by Ginny Cheek, Lafayette County Master Gardener
Are you tired of the same old boring mushrooms on your pizza or in your stir fry? Look no further than the chanterelle mushroom (Cantharellus cibarius), a wild and wacky fungus that’s sure to spice up your life.
First off, let’s talk about the name. Chanterelle? More like Chant-a-RELLE (not the musical group). It’s like this mushroom is just begging to be the life of the party though. These fun fungi are highly sought after by chefs and foodies alike for their delicate, nutty flavor and vibrant, golden-orange color.
Now you might be thinking, “But wait, I live in Mississippi. There’s no way chanterelles grow here.” ell think again! Chanterelles are known to grow in forests all over the United States, including Mississippi. I even had a few pop up in my front yard last year! So the next time you’re out hiking, keep your eyes peeled for these golden treasures. Of course, never eat any wild mushroom without an expert in mycology (mushroom expert) confirming its identity. There is a poisonous mushroom called a jack-o-lantern (Omphalotus illudens) that looks very similar to a chanterelle.
Be warned, chanterelles can be a bit of a diva. They like their habitat just so—damp, shady, and preferably around hardwood trees. They do like the royal treatment! It’s all worth it when you take that first bite.
Chanterelles have a unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with savory dishes like pasta, risotto, and even grilled meats. Not only do they taste good, they’re good for you too. Chanterelles are high in vitamins and minerals, and are even rumored to have immune-boosting properties.
So this spring, just take a few minutes to look down while you’re walking around campus or anywhere outside. You might just spot this little jewel!
For more information on mushrooms, consider joining the North American Mycological Association (NAMA). Go to www.namyco.org/join.php. For only $30 for non-affiliated members, you will receive sic issues of The Mycophile, full access to our expanded website, and a standing invitation to all NAMA-sponsored forays. Members enjoy all the benefits NAMA has to offer, including our newsletter, The Mycophile, which is full of educational articles and news about upcoming forays.
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The Lafayette County Master Gardener Association (LCMGA) are pleased to welcome the public to their Annual Spring Lecture Series which will be held Thursday, May 11 at noon. in the Dotsy A. Fitts Auditorium of the Lafayette County & Oxford Public Library at 401 Bramlett Boulevard. Parking is available at the library or across the street at the Oxford Skate Park.
Our next speaker will be Jeff McManus, Director of Landscape Services at the University of Mississippi who will provide a lecture on “Pruning like a Pro.” This talk will help gardeners answer questions about pruning. What to prune? When to prune? Where to prune? Do I even need to prune? For more information or questions follow us on Instagram or Facebook, visit our website at www.lcmga.org/ or call the MSU Extension office at 662-234-4451.
