Are you looking for a new and exciting ingredient to add to your cooking repertoire?
Look no further than the shrimp of the woods mushroom!
This unique and flavorful mushroom is a favorite among foragers and chefs alike. But how do you cook it?
In this article, we’ll explore different methods for preparing and cooking shrimp of the woods mushrooms, from roasting to sautéing.
Whether you’re a seasoned mushroom enthusiast or a curious beginner, you’ll find plenty of tips and tricks to help you make the most of this delicious ingredient.
So grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Shrimp Of The Woods Mushrooms?
There are several ways to cook shrimp of the woods mushrooms, depending on your preference and the dish you’re making. Here are some popular methods:
What Are Shrimp Of The Woods Mushrooms?
Shrimp of the woods mushrooms, also known as Entoloma abortivum, are a type of edible mushroom that belongs to the Entolomataceae family of fungi. These mushrooms are commonly found in wooded areas east of the Rocky Mountains and are highly valued by foragers for their unique texture and flavor.
Interestingly, shrimp of the woods mushrooms are not a single species but a combination of two different types of mushrooms. They are formed when the Entoloma abortivum mushroom parasitizes the honey mushroom (Armillaria mellea), resulting in a lumpy, white mass that is prized as a culinary treat.
Shrimp of the woods mushrooms have several other common names, including Hunter’s Heart, Ground Prune, Aborting Entoloma, Abortive Entoloma, and Totlcoxcatl (in Mexico). The name “shrimp of the woods” comes from its texture, which is similar to that of shrimp.
It’s important to note that while shrimp of the woods mushrooms are edible, caution should be used in identifying the species before eating. Similar species such as Entoloma sinuatum can be poisonous. If you’re unsure about the identification of a mushroom, it’s best to consult with an expert before consuming it.
Where To Find Shrimp Of The Woods Mushrooms?
Shrimp of the woods mushrooms are most commonly found east of the Rocky Mountains. They grow on the ground, usually near dead or decaying wood, and can often be found in clusters. These mushrooms tend to fruit in the late summer through to autumn, making it a perfect time to forage for them. They are frequently found where honey mushrooms (Armillaria) are growing or have grown previously.
When searching for shrimp of the woods mushrooms, it’s important to keep an eye out for their distinct characteristics. The cap is gray and may have brown tones, starting as convex with margins that roll in, and developing into a flatter shape. The spongy white flesh has pink or brown marbling, and can grow up to 10cm tall and 10cm in diameter. The gills are white but turn pinker with maturity, and may be decurrent and only attached to the stem. The stem is central but may be off-center, gray with brownish tones like the cap, and has a bulb-like base.
It’s important to note that when foraging for shrimp of the woods mushrooms, caution should be used in identifying the species before eating. Similar species such as Entoloma sinuatum can be poisonous. However, once you’ve identified these mushrooms correctly, they are a delicious addition to many dishes.
How To Clean Shrimp Of The Woods Mushrooms?
Cleaning shrimp of the woods mushrooms can be a bit tricky, but it’s an essential step to ensure that your dish is both safe and delicious. Here’s how to clean them properly:
1. Start by trimming off the root or base of the mushrooms that attach them to the ground. This part is usually covered in dirt, so it’s important to remove it before cleaning.
2. Use a small brush or a damp cloth to gently clean the mushrooms, making sure to get rid of any dirt or debris that may be stuck in the crevasses.
3. Rinse the mushrooms under cold water, but avoid soaking them since they can absorb too much water and become soggy.
4. Pat dry the mushrooms with a paper towel or a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
5. If you’re dealing with dirty mushrooms, make sure to separate them from the clean ones in your basket or bag. Dirty mushrooms can make it harder to clean and can also soil other mushrooms.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cleaned shrimp of the woods mushrooms that are ready for cooking.
Roasting Shrimp Of The Woods Mushrooms
Roasting shrimp of the woods mushrooms is a simple and delicious way to bring out their natural flavors. To start, preheat your oven to 475F. Cut the mushrooms into morsel-sized pieces, slightly larger than you would want for a single bite to account for the loss of volume during cooking. For very large mushrooms, quarter them, for medium-sized ones, halve them, and for small ones, leave them whole. Toss the cut mushrooms with melted fat, old bay seasoning, and flour.
Next, arrange the mushrooms on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spread out so that none of them touch each other to ensure a good crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating halfway through cooking. Once done, serve the roasted shrimp of the woods mushrooms sprinkled with extra Old Bay seasoning or any other seasoning of your choice. Crunchy salt and lemon wedges are also great additions to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Roasting shrimp of the woods mushrooms is a great way to bring out their unique texture and flavor. The high heat of the oven helps to caramelize the edges of the mushrooms, giving them a crispy and savory taste. This method is perfect for adding to pasta dishes or as a side dish to a main course. Try roasting shrimp of the woods mushrooms today and experience their delicious flavor for yourself!
Sautéing Shrimp Of The Woods Mushrooms
Sautéing shrimp of the woods mushrooms is a simple and delicious way to prepare them. Before sautéing, it’s important to clean the mushrooms properly. Use a small brush to remove any dirt from the crevasses, then rinse them under cool water and pat them dry.
To sauté the mushrooms, slice them into smaller pieces and add them to a preheated saucepan on high heat. Cover the pan and let the mushrooms cook in their own water that is released due to the heat. Once the water has evaporated, add a small amount of olive oil to lightly coat the mushrooms.
Keep the saucepan on medium heat until the mushrooms are browned. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Season with a little salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
Once the mushrooms are browned, you can add them to your dish or serve them as a side. They pair well with rice or rice noodles. To add extra flavor, toss the mushrooms in a sauce made with unsweetened apple juice, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chili pepper.
When picking shrimp of the woods mushrooms, look for firm ones as they are fresher and better for cooking. Softer ones may be over-saturated or past their prime.
Sautéed shrimp of the woods mushrooms are a great addition to any meal and are sure to impress your guests with their unique flavor and texture.
Grilling Shrimp Of The Woods Mushrooms
Grilling is a great way to bring out the natural flavors of shrimp of the woods mushrooms. To prepare them for grilling, start by cleaning the mushrooms with a small brush to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse them under cool water and pat them dry. Once they’re clean, slice the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the sliced mushrooms on the grill and season them with a little salt and pepper. Grill them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re browned and slightly crispy.
You can serve grilled shrimp of the woods mushrooms as a side dish or use them as a topping for burgers or salads. They also pair well with grilled meats and seafood.
To add some extra flavor, try brushing the mushrooms with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and herbs before grilling. You can also sprinkle them with grated parmesan cheese or drizzle them with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
