Dear mushroom lovers, who also love chicken, this piece of information is for you. Meet
Chicken of the Woods
, a variety of mushroom that tastes like chicken.
This fried chicken-tasting mushroom is called Laetiporus sulphureus and is more commonly known as ‘Chicken of the Woods.' It can be found across Europe and North America, mainly on oak trees, but can also be found on yew, cherry, and sweet chestnut trees.
Laetiporus is bright in colour and known to be succulent and soft, with a fleshy middle, much like chicken.
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As it is a sulfur-colored mushroom, it does have a strong fungus smell, but is edible. Due to its similarity with other poisonous fungi, though, it’s best not to pick it unless you’re an expert.
As per reports, Laetiporus sulphureus was first mentioned as Boletus sulphureus by French mycologist Pierre Bulliard in 1789. It is also called the chicken mushroom, and it grows from 2 to 20 inches in size and can weigh up to 45 kg.
Also Read: 8 types of Mushrooms found in India and their health benefits
It is rich in protein, fiber, calcium, and various vitamins and minerals.
If you have managed to safely get some chicken out of the wood, however, it’s a great vegan alternative to chicken and complements a soup well.
Image Courtesy: Instagram/onepostperhour
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