Mushrooms are a popular food item around the world, and they are often eaten as a vegetable. But what are some of the Wisconsin mushrooms that you should know about?
Mushrooms can be found all over Wisconsin, and there is a wide variety of them to choose from. Some mushrooms are edible and can be used in dishes, while others are poisonous.
In this article, we will discuss 4 common mushrooms in Wisconsin and how to identify them. We will also provide tips on how to cook and eat them safely.
[Related Article: 4 Common Mushrooms In Wyoming]
1. Morel
Morels are one of the most common mushrooms in Wisconsin. They can be found in woods, fields, and even your backyard! Morels are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and they’re also very tasty. But before you go out picking morels, there are a few things you should know.
First, not all morels are edible. There are two types of morels: true morels and false morels. True morels (Morchella esculenta) have a hollow stem, while false morels (Gyromitra esculenta) have a solid stem.
False morels can cause serious illness or even death if eaten, so it’s important to be able to tell the difference between the two.
Second, even edible morels can cause stomach upset if they’re not cooked properly. Morels should be cooked before eating, and they should never be eaten raw.
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious mushroom to add to your meals, look no further than the morel! Just make sure you know what you’re doing before you start picking them.
2. Hen Of The Woods
The hen of the woods mushroom is a common sight in Wisconsin woods. This large, edible fungus gets its name from its distinct shape and color, which resemble a plump chicken. The hen of the woods is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients like fiber, protein, and vitamins B and C.
If you’re lucky enough to find a hen of the woods mushroom while out hiking, make sure to clean it thoroughly before cooking. These mushrooms can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from sautéed to grilled, or even raw in salads.
Just remember that cooking will help to release more of their flavor and nutrients.
Whether you’re an experienced mushroom hunter or just starting out, the hen of the woods is a great find. Not only are they a tasty treat, but they’re also good for you! So next time you’re out exploring the Wisconsin woods, keep your eyes peeled for these plump and flavorful fungi.
3. Meadow Mushroom
Meadow mushrooms are one of the most common mushrooms found in Wisconsin. They typically grow in fields and meadows, hence their name. These mushrooms can vary in color, but are usually some shade of brown.
Meadow mushrooms are a type of edible fungi that is often sought after by mushroom hunters. While they are not the most flavorful mushroom out there, they can still make a good addition to any dish.
When cooked properly, meadow mushrooms have a slightly nutty flavor that goes well with meats and other earthy flavors.
If you’re planning on going mushroom hunting in Wisconsin, keep an eye out for meadow mushrooms! With a little bit of luck, you should be able to find plenty of these tasty fungi.
4. Chanterelle
Chanterelle mushrooms are one of the most common mushrooms in Wisconsin. They can be found in woods, fields, and even your backyard!
These mushrooms have a distinctive shape, with a curved cap and ridged underside. They can be anywhere from yellow to orange in color.
Chanterelles are a versatile mushroom that can be used in many different dishes. They have a slightly nutty flavor that goes well with other ingredients. Chanterelles can be sauteed, grilled, or even used in soups and stews.
If you’re lucky enough to find some chanterelle mushrooms, be sure to cooked them properly before eating. While most mushrooms are safe to eat raw, chanterelles should always be cooked before consuming.
This will help to bring out their flavor and make them more digestible. So the next time you’re out for a hike or exploring the woods, keep an eye out for these delicious mushrooms!
