There are many different types of mushrooms that are common in Maine. Some of these include the Lobster Mushroom, Witches’ Butter, Puffballs, Shaggy Mane, Bear’s Head, Wood-Ear, and Chanterelles.
[Related Article: 7 Common Mushrooms In Maryland]
1. Lobster Mushroom
The Lobster Mushroom is a very common mushroom found in the state of Maine. It gets its name from its lobster-like appearance and taste. This type of mushroom can be found in many different colors, including red, orange, yellow and white.
The Lobster Mushroom is a very popular type of mushroom to eat because it is so flavorful. Many people say that it tastes just like lobster!
If you are lucky enough to find a Lobster Mushroom, make sure that you cook it properly before eating it. This type of mushroom can contain harmful toxins if it is not cooked properly.
When cooking a Lobster Mushroom, it is best to simmer it in water for at least 10 minutes. This will help to break down the toxins and make the mushroom safe to eat.
These mushrooms are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. If you are able to find this type of mushroom, make sure to cook it properly before enjoying it!
2. Witches’ Butter
Witches’ Butter is a common mushroom found in Maine. This fungus gets its name from its yellow, jelly-like appearance. It is often found growing on decaying logs or stumps.
This mushroom is edible, but not particularly tasty. Some people say it has a slightly fruity flavor. It can be cooked and eaten, but is not commonly consumed due to its bland taste.
Witches’ Butter is sometimes used in traditional medicines. It is said to have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat respiratory problems. This mushroom can also be made into a tea.
If you find Witches’ Butter growing in your yard, you can remove it if you wish. However, it is not considered to be harmful and poses no danger to humans or animals.
3. Puffballs
There are many different types of mushrooms that can be found in Maine, but one of the most common is the puffball. Puffballs are small, round mushrooms that have a white or light-colored flesh.
They can be found growing on the ground in wooded areas, and they are often mistaken for other types of mushrooms, such as chanterelles or morels.
Puffballs are safe to eat, but there are a few things to keep in mind when harvesting them. First, only harvest puffballs that are completely white inside.
If the flesh is any other color, it is not safe to eat. Second, cut the puffball in half before cooking or eating it. This will help to ensure that there are no insects or other critters hiding inside.
Puffballs can be cooked in a variety of ways, and they make a great addition to soups, stews, and casseroles. They can also be sauteed or grilled and served as a side dish. When cooking puffballs, remember that they will shrink considerably, so plan accordingly.
4. Shaggy Mane
Shaggy mane mushrooms are one of the most common mushrooms found in Maine. These mushrooms are easily recognizable by their shaggy, white caps and long stems. Shaggy mane mushrooms are most often found growing in fields or on forest floors.
These mushrooms are edible and can be cooked in a variety of ways. While some people find the taste of shaggy mane mushrooms to be earthy and slightly bitter, others enjoy their unique flavor.
No matter how you feel about the taste, there’s no denying that these mushrooms are a delicious addition to any meal!
5. Bear’s Head
Bear’s Head is a common mushroom found in Maine. This mushroom gets its name from its appearance, which is similar to that of a bear’s head. The Bear’s Head mushroom is usually found growing on tree stumps or logs.
This mushroom is edible, but it is not considered to be very tasty.
6. Wood-Ear
Wood-ear mushrooms are a common sight in Maine. These small, brown mushrooms often grow in clusters on trees or logs. Wood-ear mushrooms are edible, but not particularly flavorful. They are often used as a decorative addition to dishes rather than being eaten on their own.
Wood-ear mushrooms get their name from their ear-shaped caps. These mushrooms range in color from light brown to dark brown. They have a wrinkled appearance and are usually between one and two inches in diameter.
Wood-ear mushrooms can be found growing on dead trees or logs.
While wood-ear mushrooms are not the most flavorful mushrooms, they are still edible. These mushrooms can be cooked and added to soups, stir-fries, and other dishes. Wood-ear mushrooms are also sometimes used as a decoration on sushi rolls or other presentations.
7. Chanterelles
Chanterelles are a type of edible mushrooms that are common in Maine. These mushrooms have a golden-yellow color and an umbrella-like shape. Chanterelles have a slightly fruity, peppery taste and are often used in cooking.
These mushrooms can be found growing in the wild or cultivated. When purchasing chanterelles, make sure to look for fresh mushrooms with no bruising or black spots. Chanterelles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To clean chanterelles, simply brush off any dirt with a soft brush. These mushrooms do not need to be washed as they will absorb water and become mushy. Chanterelles can be cooked in a variety of ways including sautéed, grilled, or roasted.
Conclusion
Each of these mushrooms has their own unique appearance and taste. If you are looking for a new type of mushroom to try, I hope this blog post has been helpful. Be sure to check out our website for more information on these mushrooms and other types of mushrooms that are common in Maine!
