Chanterelles are prized mushrooms found in wet winter regions, harvested in Germany, Italy, and the Pacific Northwest. They have a distinctive orange color, nutty flavor, and can be mistaken for poisonous mushrooms. True chanterelles have a smooth, yellow-orange cap and are available fresh, dried, or canned.
Chanterelles are delicious, delicately flavored mushrooms that are highly prized in the regions of the world where they grow. Found in many areas with wet winters, the mushrooms are harvested for sale and commercial shipment in Germany and Italy, as well as harvested in the Pacific Northwest and northern states along the Canadian border. In Europe, mushrooms are used in many traditional cuisines and are also known as Girolle in Italy and Pfifferling in Germany.
Chanterelles are part of the Cantharellus genus, which contains several other edible mushroom species. The full scientific name of the cockerel is Cantharellus cibarius. The mushrooms are a distinctive orange color with well-defined gills, a solid stem, and a sweet apricot scent. In texture, these mushrooms are slightly chewy and have a nutty, earthy flavor that complements a range of dishes. Because these mushrooms become rubbery with overcooking, most cooks add them to the pan last.
Mushroom identification can be dangerous. If you are interested in pursuing wild mushrooms, it is advisable to bring along an experienced mushroom forager. Many other mushrooms masquerade as chanterelles, and while they may not kill you, they will cause intestinal discomfort. Both the Jack O’Lantern and the Falter Chanterelle resemble chanterelles and can be mistaken for them by inexperienced mushroom hunters. The Jack O’Lantern has no white flesh and the False Chanterelle has thin gills and a darker top.
A true chanterelle has a smooth, hairless yellow to orange cap that becomes slightly waxy as the mushroom matures. The flesh of the mushroom is firm and white, and the gills of the mushroom will run partially down the stem. The gills are shallow and resemble folds more than traditional mushroom gills, forking towards the mushroom cap. Chanterelles do not have a veil or callus and are often found hidden under leaf mold. They have a long fruiting season if the rains are sustained and good areas will produce mushrooms year after year.
Chanterelles are available in many supermarkets and specialty shops. Dried and canned mushrooms from Europe are available year-round, as well as seasonally harvested varieties in some areas. Many farmers markets in Europe have chanterelles, along with a variety of other mushrooms, in season. In addition to the regular chanterelles, you may also find the black variety, its earthier and even more delicious cousin. Black chanterelles are much harder to find, and higher prices will reflect this.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
