I set out for a fungi hunt this morning with my faithful companions (Coco and Blu).
The ground was finally wet after a few days of rain, making it conducive for mushrooms.
I was greeted by a few familiar faces, along with some interesting new discoveries.
As I entered the woodland, the usual Weeping Willow mushrooms were sprouting everywhere in troops.
A little further, beneath the hazelnut tree, A Velvet Shank growing on a log.
I spotted the Fiery Mushroom.
This is the first one I’ve seen re-sprouted this season, normally there are plenty growing here, so I’ve no doubt the rest will soon follow. I always have a tiny taste of its spicy sap; it sets my mouth on fire with a sharp bite, similar to chilli heat but with an even sharper edge.
Along the way, further, the Deceivers were popping up all over the place.
Deceivers (Laccaria laccata) are not ideal for beginners because their appearance varies, hence the name, with shape and colour changing depending on age, moisture, and habitat, and they can be confused with toxic species.
While around them stood individual mushrooms:
Possibly the Pale Brittlestem
Possibly a Bonnet Mushroom
And perhaps the Common Mycena
There were also plenty of Crested Corals scattered about.
I was especially impressed with my two hunting buddies. they’ve learned what I look for. As soon as they sniffed out a mushroom, they stayed put, waiting patiently until I came to have a look.
On my way out of the woods, I spotted a bright yellow mushroom, the so-called Egg yolk Mushroom.
Its colour resembled a yolk: shiny, sticky, and glossy, with dirt clinging to the cap.
Almost like mini egg yolks.
This is the mature one.
Satisfied with a handful of assorted edible finds: Dceivers, fiery mushrooms and some, velvet shank.
I headed home with my faithful companions, who were rewarded with a well-deserved salmon treat.
For myself, I made a simple but delicious breakfast: mushrooms sautéed in butter and herbs, served on buttered toast with a poached egg on top, finished with a generous sprinkling of fresh herbs.
Among the mushrooms, this fiery one was delicious, the heat was not so bad when cooked!
The whole thing made my Fungi Friday fun!
Wishing you all a lovely day, Mariah :)