Cauliflower mushroom
Sparissis crispa
Cauliflower mushrooms have been growing wild since ancient times.
They can be found all around the world in forests eg. In North America, Asia and Europe.
They are very rare but considered an absolute delicacy.
These fungi have also been cultivated in the late 20th century and sold for export.
The cauliflower mushroom can weigh up to 6 kg.
Name: Cauliflower Mushroom, Sparassis crispa
Other names: Hanabiratake, Xiu Qui Jun, Noodle mushrooms, Wood cauliflower
Family: Sparassidaceae
Harvest months: Aug-Nov
Usable plant parts: Fruiting body
Appearance:
The mushroom has an ocher yellow color. The fruiting body is curly-branched.
The fruiting body is usually the size of a fist when young.
The stalk resembles the hidden stalk of cauliflower and is no longer visible in the mature stage.
The flesh is whitish, smells spicy, and tastes nutty.
The spores have a pale yellowish color.
Habitant: Under pine trees, almost always in the same place.
Risk of confusion: Sparassis brevipes, Sparassis tremelloides
Toxicity: non-toxic
Warning: It is better to collect and utilize the mushroom only while the it is still white or yellowish-white.
Older, already brownish specimens have a bitter taste and can cause indigestion.
Ingredients: beta-glucan, iron, folic acid, calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B2, zinc
Properties: antibacterial, antifungal, blood pressure-lowering, cholesterol-lowering, anti-inflammatory, immune strengthening, wound healing
Helps with: hypertension, diabetes, ulcers, skin conditions, cardiovascular disease,
Plant uses
Cooking:
It is edible and has a mild nutty aroma.
The Cauliflower mushroom one goes wonderfully chopped in a mushroom pan or omelet.
Cut into thin strips, it becomes a delicious addition to soups and stews.
Health:
Especially in Eastern Europe, the mushroom has made a name for itself for centuries as a medicinal mushroom
and is used in the treatment of immune deficiency, ulcers, and fungal infections.
Beauty:
Its extracts are used in damaged skin and as well as in anti-aging skin products.
