It finally happened! After a long hunt, my friend @jacks_patch and I discovered my first Chicken of the Woods in the heart of London! I’m still thrilled; it’s past prime time, but who cares? It still tastes wonderful and has an unbelievable weight of 4.2 kg. The experience of finding such a unique mushroom in the urban jungle of London is nothing short of magical. We carefully harvested it, taking care not to damage the surrounding environment, and couldn’t wait to bring it home and cook it.
Chicken of the Woods has a flavor that is quite close to chicken, and even the texture and scent are comparable. This mushroom is an incredible substitute for those looking to add a meaty texture to their plant-based dishes. Its ability to absorb flavors makes it versatile for various recipes.
I also discovered another interesting find: King Alfred’s cake. When dried, this mushroom serves as an excellent fire starter, burning slowly and steadily.
For a perfect pairing with Chicken of the Woods, I made a tasty salad that bursts with flavor. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe you can try:
Strawberry Vinaigrette:
- 150 g strawberries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salad Ingredients:
- Mixed nuts
- Leafy greens
- Fresh strawberries
- Vinaigrette (see recipe above)
- Onions
- Vegan feta cheese
Seasoning for “Chicken”:
- Plant-based butter
- Sage
- Chives
- Garlic
How to Prepare the Chicken of the Woods:
- Season it with plant-based butter, sage, chives, and garlic.
- Sauté it until it’s golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
- Serve it atop a bed of leafy greens, garnished with mixed nuts, fresh strawberries, and vegan feta cheese.
- Drizzle with the homemade strawberry vinaigrette for a refreshing, flavorful dish. This combination of textures and flavors showcases the mushroom’s unique qualities and complements its rich taste perfectly.
Quick note: I’ll tweak a few things next time, such as pressing it with hot cast iron on top and pre-cooking it on the stove for a nicer texture, but overall, I’m pleased with the results! The adjustments will help achieve a more refined texture and enhance the mushroom’s flavor even further.
A huge thank you to my fiance, @lajatattoo, for assisting with the cooking and filming. Your help made this culinary adventure even more enjoyable! The experience of cooking together and sharing this discovery was truly special.
Chicken of the Woods is not just a mushroom; it’s a gem waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned forager or new to wild mushrooms, this find is sure to add an exciting twist to your plant-based meals. Foraging for such unique ingredients opens up a world of culinary possibilities and connects us to nature in a meaningful way. Give it a try and let your taste buds be amazed!
Happy cooking and foraging!
