Foraging mushrooms is not just a way of finding food in the wild, but a way of connecting with nature and our ancestral roots. With the surge in interest in outdoor activities during the pandemic, more and more people are exploring the world of mushrooms and discovering the joys of foraging.
Iso Rabins, the founder of Forage SF, a Bay Area-based company that offers classes on foraging mushrooms, wild plants, and seaweed, believes that foraging is a way of "knowing where our food comes from and understanding the natural environment that it grows in." For him, foraging is not just about finding food but also about "experiencing a sense of wonder and awe at the beauty and diversity of the natural world."
Chelsea Heffner, the founder of WildCraft Studio School in Portland, Ore., also sees foraging as a way of connecting with nature. "There's a real depth of connection that comes from an activity like mushroom foraging," she says. "It's a way of understanding the land and the ecosystem in which we live."
But foraging is not just about the experience of being in nature. It's also about finding and cooking delicious and nutritious food. Mushrooms, in particular, are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. They're also rich in nutrients such as vitamins B and D, potassium, and selenium.
Langdon Cook, a Seattle-based writer and teacher who focuses on wild foods, believes that foraging for mushrooms is a way of "rediscovering our culinary heritage." He says, "Mushrooms were once a staple food in many cultures, and foraging is a way of reconnecting with that tradition."
But foraging for mushrooms can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing. Some mushrooms are poisonous, and eating them can be fatal. That's why it's important to learn from experts who can teach you how to identify different species of mushrooms and which ones are safe to eat.
Rebecca Lexa, a master naturalist based in Long Beach, Wash., teaches a wide variety of classes, both in-person and online, on nature identification and natural history. She emphasizes the importance of learning from experienced mushroom hunters. "You need to hold the species in your hands. You need to look at them from all angles. You need to see what they look like in their natural habitat," she says. "The best way to do that is with someone you trust."
For those who are new to foraging, joining a mycological society in the area you're exploring is a good way to connect with the local foraging community. Societies often host events and forays which, in addition to allowing you to get tips from seasoned mushroom hunters, can help you figure out where to go and when.
But for those who can't join a class or a society, there are still plenty of resources available online. WildCraft Studio School offers online classes in mushroom foraging, as well as in crafts and Native arts. Forage SF also offers online classes and resources for foragers, including a mushroom identification guide.
When it comes to cooking mushrooms, there are endless possibilities. Mushrooms can be sautéed, grilled, roasted, or fried. They can be used as a topping for pizza, blended into a soup, or used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes. The key is to let their natural flavors shine through.
Mr. Rabins believes that cooking with foraged mushrooms is a way of connecting with the land and the natural environment. "When you forage mushrooms and then cook with them, you're creating a connection between the land and the plate," he says. "You're eating something that grew in the soil, that was nourished by the rain and the sun. It's always important to do your research and ensure that you're not foraging in protected areas or areas that have been contaminated by pollution. With that in mind, let's dive into the world of foraging for mushrooms.
One of the keys to successful mushroom foraging is finding an expert to guide you. As Langdon Cook, a Seattle-based writer and teacher who focuses on wild foods, notes, "You need to hold the species in your hands. You need to look at them from all angles. You need to see what they look like in their natural habitat. The best way to do that is with someone you trust."
There are many foraging schools and classes available, such as Forage SF and WildCraft Studio School. Signing up for a guided foraging walk can be a great way to learn from experienced hunters and get a better understanding of the local ecosystem.
However, if you're unable to join a guided walk, there are still many resources available. For example, master naturalist Rebecca Lexa teaches a wide variety of classes, both in-person and online, on nature identification and natural history. Her online classes took off during the pandemic and remain popular for people with less flexible schedules.
Foraging can be a deeply rewarding experience, not just for the delicious mushrooms you can find, but also for the connection it fosters with nature. As Chelsea Heffner, the founder of WildCraft Studio School in Portland, Oregon, notes, "There's a real depth of connection that comes from an activity like mushroom foraging." Mr. Rabins agrees, noting that "challenging times have people longing for a deeper kind of connection... Knowing how to go into the woods and find a mushroom that you can take home and cook for dinner feels like something solid, or tangible."
Of course, foraging can also be a bit intimidating for those who are new to it. But fear not, as there are many resources available to help you get started. Here are a few tips for successful mushroom foraging:
Learn to identify the mushrooms in your area: Before you head out into the woods, it's important to know what kind of mushrooms you're looking for. There are many guidebooks and online resources available to help you identify local species.
Know where to look: Different types of mushrooms grow in different environments. For example, chanterelles are often found near conifers, while morels are often found near deciduous trees. Do your research to figure out the best places to look for the types of mushrooms you're interested in finding.
Bring the right tools: It's important to bring a basket or cloth bag to carry your mushrooms, as well as a knife for harvesting. It's also a good idea to bring a field guide to help with identification.
Don't take more than you need: It's important to only take as many mushrooms as you plan to use. Leave some behind for other foragers and for the ecosystem to continue thriving.
Cook your mushrooms thoroughly: While mushrooms can be delicious, they can also be poisonous if not cooked properly. Make sure to cook your mushrooms thoroughly before eating them.
With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to a successful mushroom foraging adventure. And once you've found your delicious treasures, there are many ways to prepare and enjoy them. From sautéing with butter and garlic to adding them to soups and stews, mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can add depth and flavor to many dishes