Blackberry coral mushroom recipe. Blackberry mushroom (hedgehog): description of types and cooking features

Description of the coral-shaped hedgehog. Healing substances contained in its fruiting body. What beneficial properties does it have on the body, possible harmful effects if abused. Recipes with mushroom.

The content of the article:

Coral hedgehog is edible seasonal mushroom from the Hericiaceae family. It is also called "hericium" after its Latin botanical name, which means "hedgehog". All species related to the hedgehog are similar to each other, have a fleshy structure, white color, and are saprotrophs, that is, they grow on dead or dying wood. The fruiting bodies of the mushroom resemble coral, hence the second part of its official name. The hedgehog is found in many countries around the world, but is most often found in the tropical forests of South America. All four species are bred in Japan, China and others Asian countries, where it is considered a delicacy and a medicine.

Composition and calorie content of coral-shaped hedgehog

The genus Hericium was first described by H. Perun in 1794, and was later mentioned in the famous work “Systema Mycologicum” (1822). Blackberry fruiting bodies typically have short "stems" that attach to the sides of the host tree. Its jagged branches reach from 10 to 40 cm in length and from 5 to 20 cm in width. They are soft and fragile, and may be covered with a small coating or hairs. Mature specimens are difficult to distinguish from similar species, as many adults have long stems that hang down. Some of them may be filled with an oily liquid.

The caloric content of coral hedgehog is 20 kcal, it contains a lot of protein, fiber, and almost no fat and carbohydrates. Hericium is rich in low molecular weight substances of group B, ascorbic acid, vitamin D and PP. Due to this, the use of coral-shaped hedgehog has a positive effect on the health of the skin, liver, and eyes. Vitamins and active macroelements protect the cardiovascular, nervous, and digestive systems, slightly accelerating metabolism and fat breakdown, facilitating unhindered digestion and excretion of food.

Blackberry contains a lot of water (from 60 to 85%), which enters the body with the dish, maintains the proper level of metabolism, lowering blood pressure, improving the hydration of cells for which liquid is the key to vitality.

The plant fibers of the mushroom provide a long-lasting feeling of satiety and help you stay on a diet, and essential amino acids combine the advantages of both meat and plant ingredients.

Zinc, copper, selenium, iron and even silver are included in the composition of the coral-shaped hedgehog. The importance of these microelements is difficult to underestimate: they control the transfer of oxygen and the removal of waste substances from tissues, participate in DNA synthesis, nerve impulse transmission, hormone production, and control of reproductive function. Many of them are also antioxidants, meaning they prevent the development of cancerous tumors which appear from free radical damage. The latter are a natural result of oxidative processes, which include respiration. By consuming enough vegetables, fruits and other sources of antioxidants, you can reduce the risk of health problems.

Calcium and phosphorus also determine the benefits of the coralline hedgehog. Constantly adding mushrooms to food will help strengthen bones and joints, and prevent the leaching of microelements from the skeleton and tooth enamel.

Beneficial properties of coral-shaped hedgehog

Among the important properties of hericium

Healthy Digestion. Fiber in food is known to relieve constipation. Blackberry is extremely rich in plant fibers, which facilitate digestion and improve the absorption of nutrients. Among other things, fiber retains water well, increasing in size. This allows you to simultaneously increase the hydration of cells and supply them with the fluid necessary to carry out biological reactions, as well as feel full for a long time. Thanks to fiber, energy is produced not just once, but over a longer period of time, providing the body with “fuel” for constant activity.
Youthful skin. B vitamins perform many different functions. One of the most visually noticeable is smooth and radiant skin, untouched by cosmetic problems, wrinkles and premature aging. The same applies to other integuments - hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, which look thick and shiny.
Weight loss. Fiber makes you feel full and energetic, and linoleic acid in blackberry helps fight fat deposits more effectively. It especially intensively counteracts extra pounds on the stomach.
Fight against cancer. Hericium is a popular remedy for the treatment of tumors and the prevention of their occurrence. It can be consumed both in the form of dietary supplements and as part of dishes, but the mushroom must be cooked and cannot be consumed raw. Blackberry vitamins and minerals act as antioxidants and prevent the formation of tumors, and natural immune agents destroy cells that have succumbed to the harmful influence of the environment.
Liver health and body cleansing. B vitamins not only protect this organ, they encourage the liver to remove toxins and waste substances from the body. Otherwise, they can linger and accumulate in the body.
Prevention of pathologies of the central nervous system . The positive effect of hedgehog on the central nervous system is known, which helps get rid of neurasthenia, depression, and unmotivated mood changes. The mushroom also brings quick sleep and good sleep. Regular consumption of blackberry reduces the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease and other diseases associated with mental abilities.
Element of a vegetarian diet. Similar in its set of amino acids to meat, the mushroom serves as a substitute both in taste and in terms of benefits. By adding it to their diet, vegans and people on strict diets do not have to worry about developing vitamin deficiencies or lacking vital nutrients.
Liquid source. Since there is a lot of water in the blackberry, the fungus keeps the body hydrated and serves as a donor of substances without which cells cannot exist.

Harm and contraindications to coral hedgehog

This species is rarely found outside of South America, but can be purchased or found by chance. The characteristic shape of the hedgehog mushroom, which makes it look like coral, as well as its placement on trees will leave no doubt about what kind of mushroom is in front of you. However, it is still better to be careful.

Consequences of abusing the Coraloid hedgehog:

Poisoning. Since mushrooms growing in the wild are capable of accumulating harmful substances and heavy metals from the environment, any species found should be treated with extreme care. To reduce possible harm, mushrooms are soaked and cooked for a long time, or specimens obtained from farms and ripened in a controlled environment are preferred. If you notice any discomfort after eating mushrooms, be sure to call an ambulance.
Stomach upset. Even mushrooms from ecologically clean areas can cause foodborne illness. Since blackberry contains a lot of fiber and is a “heavy” food, it is better to get used to eating it gradually and in small amounts.

Absolute contraindications to coral hedgehog:

Age. This mushroom is especially rich in fiber and chitin, which are poorly digested by the bodies of children and the elderly. Do not offer this product to children under 5 years of age or people over 65, especially if they have digestive problems.
Allergy. Blackberry can become a strong allergen for some people. Taste it carefully and in small portions, or completely give up this pleasure, especially if you have already encountered allergies to vegetables and fruits.

Recipes for dishes with barnacle mushroom

Hericium can be used in all recipes where regular mushrooms are present. Its taste and aroma are not very pronounced, but the benefits of the coral hedgehog are undeniable. Hericium is fried and boiled, baked, and used to make purees and composite fillings. Whatever you cook with this mushroom will be very tasty.

Recipes with barnacle mushroom

Soup with hedgehog. The first dish with hericium looks very unusual and attractive. To prepare it you will need half a kilo of fresh blackberry, 2 large spoons of butter, 2 liters of water, 5 medium-sized potatoes, 2 medium carrots, 1 parsley root, 1 onion, a little sunflower oil for frying, bay leaf, salt, pepper for dressing. Wash the mushrooms, cut them, fry them in butter, then transfer them to a saucepan and fill with water. Boil for half an hour over low heat, then add chopped potatoes, carrots, parsley (you can also pre-fry in vegetable oil). Add the onion and spices, then cook for about 30 minutes. For taste, before serving, you can “flavor” the soup with cream, sour cream or fresh herbs.
Casserole with mushrooms and potatoes. The dish is easy to prepare, as well as nutritious, pleasing to the eye and stomach. Take 1 kg of mushrooms and the same amount of potatoes, 100 g of cheese (Dutch or Russian), 5-6 eggs (depending on size), 1 onion, 1 carrot, a glass of sour cream, a little vegetable or olive oil, pepper, salt, favorite spices . Finely chop the carrots and onions (you can grate them), fry over low heat until soft. We make minced mushrooms using a blender, meat grinder or very finely chopped mushrooms. Add eggs, salt and spices to the mushroom mince. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin “slices”, place them in a pre-greased baking dish. Place fried onions and carrots on top, and form the next layer from minced mushrooms. Repeat until the ingredients run out or the mold is filled. Fill the casserole with sour cream and sprinkle cheese on top. Place in the oven and bake at 180 degrees for half an hour (or until fully cooked).
Julienne with hedgehog mushroom. To prepare, we will need: 400 g of chicken fillet without skin and bones, 300 g of blackberry, 2 medium onions, 200 ml of heavy cream, 150 g of cheese, butter, herbs, salt and pepper. Fry the chicken, cut into pieces, in a frying pan until half cooked, then add the onion to it and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Place the mushrooms in the same pan and fry everything together for about 5 minutes. Pour the mixture with cream, season with salt and pepper, simmer for 3-4 minutes. Add the grated cheese, stir, cover with a lid and turn off the heat. Let the dish sit for a while, then serve, garnished with herbs.
Macaroni with mushrooms and cheese. To create 4 servings of the dish, take: 200 g of blackberry, half a kilo of pasta, 1 onion, 2 eggs, oil for frying, 100 g of cheese, breadcrumbs, salt. Chop the mushrooms and onions, fry in a frying pan, season well. Boil the pasta according to the instructions on the package in pre-salted water. Cool the finished product, break the eggs into it, and mix. Grease a baking dish with oil and cover with breadcrumbs. Spread the pasta-egg mixture on top, then add the mushrooms and onions. Cover the top with a second layer of pasta, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and grated cheese. Place the pan in the oven, preheated to 190 degrees, bake for about 15 minutes.
Blackberry in sour cream. Like any other mushroom, hericium is good on its own if it is tasty fried or baked. For 800 g of mushrooms, take 2 onions, 200 ml of sour cream, a little butter, salt, black pepper, and a bunch of herbs. Wash and chop the onion, put it in oil in a heated frying pan and fry until golden brown. Add mushrooms, frying for another 10 minutes. Add sour cream, salt and pepper, simmer for 10-15 minutes. Serve, seasoned with chopped herbs.

Interesting facts about the coral-shaped hedgehog

Most often found in nature from August to December, it is spread by spores that move only a meter away from the parent body. Optimal temperature for hedgehog growth are +25 degrees Celsius; if the temperature drops below or rises above, the development of the fungus may stop.

It is not recommended to eat blackberry raw; poisoning with stomach upset is likely. The mushroom must be cooked, well fried or boiled. Before preparing it for food, it should be thoroughly washed and inspected, as a variety of insects like to live in it.

Only white mushrooms should be cooked. Yellowness indicates old and unpalatable specimens that give the food a sour taste. Young and healthy individuals are also easy to distinguish by the state of the “branches” - they are elastic and placed vertically upward. Older hedgehogs have branches that hang down and their taste begins to deteriorate.

In China, hedgehogs are a popular remedy for gastrointestinal disorders, a medicine for improving immunity, strengthening the nervous system and respiratory tract. Mushrooms have a slight tonic effect and stimulate the process of blood formation. At the same time, contraindications to the coral-shaped hedgehog are practically zero.

Watch a video about the coral-shaped hedgehog:

The coral hedgehog is a rare, but beautiful and medicinal mushroom. It is useful for cleansing the liver and strengthening the immune system, improving metabolism and saturating the body with water. Hericium resists Alzheimer's disease and the formation of tumors, helps to lose weight and even get rid of depression. Having discovered in natural conditions, it is difficult to confuse it with poisonous species, so the mushroom is convenient to collect and safe to eat.

Composition and calorie content
Beneficial features
Harm and contraindications
Dish recipes
Interesting Facts

Coral's mushroom is an edible seasonal mushroom from the family Hericiaceae. It is also called "hericium" after its Latin botanical name, which means "hedgehog". All species related to the hedgehog are similar to each other, have a fleshy structure, white color, and are saprotrophs, that is, they grow on dead or dying wood. The fruiting bodies of the mushroom resemble coral, hence the second part of its official name. The hedgehog is found in many countries around the world, but is most often found in the tropical forests of South America. All four species are farmed in Japan, China and other Asian countries, where it is considered a delicacy and medicinal product.

The plant fibers of the mushroom provide a long-lasting feeling of satiety and help you stay on a diet, and essential amino acids combine the advantages of both meat and plant ingredients.

Zinc, copper, selenium, iron and even silver are included in the composition of the coral-shaped hedgehog. The importance of these microelements is difficult to underestimate: they control the transfer of oxygen and the removal of waste substances from tissues, participate in DNA synthesis, nerve impulse transmission, hormone production, and control of reproductive function. Many of them are also antioxidants, meaning they prevent the development of cancerous tumors that appear from damage by free radicals. The latter are a natural result of oxidative processes, which include respiration. By consuming enough vegetables, fruits and other sources of antioxidants, you can reduce the risk of health problems.

Youthful skin. B vitamins perform many different functions. One of the most visually noticeable is smooth and radiant skin, untouched by cosmetic problems, wrinkles and premature aging. The same applies to other integuments - hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, which look thick and shiny.

Weight loss. Fiber makes you feel full and energetic, and linoleic acid in blackberry helps fight fat deposits more effectively. It especially intensively counteracts extra pounds on the stomach.

Fight against cancer. Hericium is a popular remedy for the treatment of tumors and the prevention of their occurrence. It can be consumed both in the form of dietary supplements and as part of dishes, but the mushroom must be cooked and cannot be consumed raw. Blackberry vitamins and minerals act as antioxidants and prevent the formation of tumors, and natural immune agents destroy cells that have succumbed to the harmful influence of the environment.

Liver health and body cleansing. B vitamins not only protect this organ, they encourage the liver to remove toxins and waste substances from the body. Otherwise, they can linger and accumulate in the body.

Prevention of pathologies of the central nervous system. The positive effect of hedgehog on the central nervous system is known, which helps get rid of neurasthenia, depression, and unmotivated mood changes. The mushroom also brings quick sleep and good sleep. Regular consumption of blackberry reduces the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease and other diseases associated with mental abilities.

Element of a vegetarian diet. Similar in its set of amino acids to meat, the mushroom serves as a substitute both in taste and in terms of benefits. By adding it to their diet, vegans and people on strict diets do not have to worry about developing vitamin deficiencies or lacking vital nutrients.

Liquid source. Since there is a lot of water in the blackberry, the fungus keeps the body hydrated and serves as a donor of substances without which cells cannot exist.

Consequences of abusing the Coraloid hedgehog:

Poisoning

Stomach upset. Even mushrooms from ecologically clean areas can cause foodborne illness. Since blackberry contains a lot of fiber and is a “heavy” food, it is better to get used to eating it gradually and in small amounts.

Absolute contraindications to coral hedgehog:

Age

Allergy. Blackberry can become a strong allergen for some people. Taste it carefully and in small portions, or completely give up this pleasure, especially if you have already encountered allergies to vegetables and fruits.

Soup with hedgehog

Casserole with mushrooms and potatoes. The dish is easy to prepare, as well as nutritious, pleasing to the eye and stomach. Take 1 kg of mushrooms and the same amount of potatoes, 100 g of cheese (Dutch or Russian), 5-6 eggs (depending on size), 1 onion, 1 carrot, a glass of sour cream, a little vegetable or olive oil, pepper, salt, favorite spices . Finely chop the carrots and onions (you can grate them), fry over low heat until soft. We make minced mushrooms using a blender, meat grinder or very finely chopped mushrooms. Add eggs, salt and spices to the mushroom mince. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin “slices”, place them in a pre-greased baking dish. Place fried onions and carrots on top, and form the next layer from minced mushrooms. Repeat until the ingredients run out or the mold is filled. Fill the casserole with sour cream and sprinkle cheese on top. Place in the oven and bake at 180 degrees for half an hour (or until fully cooked).

Julienne with hedgehog mushroom. To prepare, we will need: 400 g of chicken fillet without skin and bones, 300 g of blackberry, 2 medium onions, 200 ml of heavy cream, 150 g of cheese, butter, herbs, salt and pepper. Fry the chicken, cut into pieces, in a frying pan until half cooked, then add the onion to it and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Place the mushrooms in the same pan and fry everything together for about 5 minutes. Pour the mixture with cream, season with salt and pepper, simmer for 3-4 minutes. Add the grated cheese, stir, cover with a lid and turn off the heat. Let the dish sit for a while, then serve, garnished with herbs.

Macaroni with mushrooms and cheese. To create 4 servings of the dish, take: 200 g of blackberry, half a kilo of pasta, 1 onion, 2 eggs, oil for frying, 100 g of cheese, breadcrumbs, salt. Chop the mushrooms and onions, fry in a frying pan, season well. Boil the pasta according to the instructions on the package in pre-salted water. Cool the finished product, break the eggs into it, and mix. Grease a baking dish with oil and cover with breadcrumbs. Spread the pasta-egg mixture on top, then add the mushrooms and onions. Cover the top with a second layer of pasta, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and grated cheese. Place the pan in the oven, preheated to 190 degrees, bake for about 15 minutes.

Blackberry in sour cream. Like any other mushroom, hericium is good on its own if it is tasty fried or baked. For 800 g of mushrooms, take 2 onions, 200 ml of sour cream, a little butter, salt, black pepper, and a bunch of herbs. Wash and chop the onion, put it in oil in a heated frying pan and fry until golden brown. Add mushrooms, frying for another 10 minutes. Add sour cream, salt and pepper, simmer for 10-15 minutes. Serve, seasoned with chopped herbs.

Most often found in nature from August to December, it is spread by spores that move only a meter away from the parent body. The optimal temperature for hedgehog growth is +25 degrees Celsius; if the temperature drops below or rises above, the development of the fungus may stop.

Watch a video about the coral-shaped hedgehog:

source

Do you doubt whether the Blackberry coral mushroom is edible or not? The answer is clear: yes. It is consumed for health benefits. For example, like food supplement, tends to enhance immunity and treat inflammatory processes in the body.

Other names of the bioactive fungus: Coral hedgehog, Lattice bramble, Hericium branched, Hericium coral, Hericium coral, Hericium lattice.

Lat. name - Hericium coralloides. The average cost per kg of mushrooms is $25.

The cap size varies from medium to large. Can reach up to 30 cm in diameter. It is flat and has a depression in the center. In the process of development, the funnel increases. In the heat, the edges crack. The edges are wavy, thin, easily deformed, and look lighter than the middle part. In the heat, they crack. The cap of young fruits is velvety and scaly. As they grow, the scales transform into bundles of fibers. From above, they resemble tiles. The color of the mushroom changes with age: from light gray, milky, to black.

Number, time and place of fruiting

Young fruits are tasty. However, they are rarely found in nature. They are listed in the Red Book of Russia. Myceliums are located in the vicinity of the Kamchatka region, on Far East, in the European part, in the Caucasus, the Urals, Western and Eastern Siberia. It is possible to meet them in these areas.

Important information! Prohibited for collection in Siberia. In the Kamchatka region, coral blackberry is not protected.

Prefers to grow on dead wood (alder, birch). Fruits after the establishment of warm air temperatures (from the first days of July to the end of September). The abundance of the species is low, because it is cut off for external decorative purposes. Suffering from deforestation.

Stores specializing in garden products sell wooden sticks with spores. In open ground, planted from April to October. They can grow in a greenhouse all year round. The estimated price of mycelium with spores is $4.

The spores are placed in the wood. To start, take freshly cut logs, without shoots. The recommended diameter is 20 cm, length is at least a meter. Immerse the sticks in water, after making holes in them (up to 4 cm), measuring 10 cm each time. To make the spores sprout more actively, create a greenhouse effect: wrap the log with film, take it to a warm, dark room. Watering should be done twice a week.

Note! Before working with spores, wear sterile gloves or treat your hands with an antiseptic.

The log can be brought into the light after the mycelium appears. When the temperature drops in the winter, cover with film. How many days does it take to collect the fruits of your labor? The first harvest appears 6 months after planting. Mushrooms are cut at a young age, without waiting for the color and texture to change.

Blackberries are difficult to confuse with other types of mushrooms. It is special: there is no obvious division into a cap and a stalk, it has thorns and needles, growths. It resembles a bright white bush, densely hung with corals. Look at the video, this mushroom is very memorable.

A mushroom with a pleasant woody aroma. The pulp gives off spicy notes. As it ages, it may become bitter. Therefore, it is worth preparing only young fruits.

Scientists conducted experiments on rats to evaluate the usefulness of the species. Research has shown that Hericium coralloides helps regenerate nerve cells in muscles. During the observation process, the animals did not experience intoxication.

Mushroom extracts are beneficial for the cardiovascular system. Hericenon B, contained in the fruit, has an antiplatelet effect. Substances found in the mycelium reduce cholesterol levels when consumed. If you use the tincture, you will lose weight. It helps fight cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Heals wounds, has an anti-inflammatory effect, eliminates insomnia and depression.

The benefits of consuming it in the form of tinctures, extracts, or as a separate dish are obvious. Acceptable mushroom dosage: 5g/kg body weight. There are no contraindications for oral administration.

Blackberries are fried, baked, and used in soups and pies. Allowed to dry. Low calorie content: 100 g contains 30 kcal. Contains 3.7 g protein, 1.1 g carbohydrates, 1.7 g fat. Prepare quickly.

Note! Fungi are prone to the accumulation of harmful substances from the environment. You cannot cut along the road. Collect them in environmentally friendly places.

After harvesting, store the fruits in the refrigerator. However, no longer than three days: otherwise, hardness and bitterness will appear. Without refrigeration, mushrooms are good for only 3 hours. If the owner did not have time to process them during this time, the caps will turn black and take on an unattractive appearance.

The tincture is made from pre-dried mushrooms. Take a medicinal infusion for tumor diseases and inflammatory processes.

Grind the mushrooms into powder.
Pour into a glass container (0.5 ml).
Fill with vodka.
Move the jar to a dark, cool place.
You can use the tincture after two weeks.

Lattice blackberries are not peeled. Place the mushrooms in a colander and rinse under running water. Rub soil-contaminated areas with a brush. Washed, pour boiling water over them. Leave in this state for 10-15 minutes. Then they put it in a colander and drain it from the kettle. After washing, remove the spines and remnants of the mycelium.

Tip: If blackberries are very dirty, they can be effectively cleaned with salt. The method is simple: add a handful of mushrooms and cover with warm water. After an hour, rinse. The mushrooms will wash off.

Marinated mushrooms are used as an appetizer and added to salads.

500 g mushrooms;
one onion;
garlic clove;
salt (1 tbsp);
vinegar (2 tbsp., 5%);
black peppercorns (10 pcs.);
bay leaf (1-2 pcs.);
rapeseed oil (1 tbsp, can be replaced with sunflower oil);
a glass of boiling water (250 ml.);
jar 720 ml.

Peel the onion and cut into two parts.
Cut into half rings.
Chop the garlic clove with a knife.
Place onion, garlic, salt, pepper, vinegar, oil (in the above proportions) in a jar. Pour 100 ml of boiling water.
Sprinkle processed mushrooms and bay leaves on top.
Add the remaining boiling water to the container.
Close the jar with a lid and shake. Turn it upside down for an hour.
Place it on the bottom and put it in the refrigerator.

It is easy to pickle the harvested crop; the mushrooms are suitable for serving after 12 hours. Cooked this way, they turn out crispy and elastic. Ideal with fried potatoes.

To prevent mushrooms from losing their valuable qualities, they are frozen. For this, young fruits are used. IN freezer, the shelf life is as follows:

Wash the fruits in a colander under running water.
Place on a napkin and dry.
Cut the mushrooms into thin slices.
Place in a bag and seal tightly.
Place in the freezer.

If you have collected few mushrooms, then it is wiser to fry them than to store them for the winter. Clear forest debris and remove thorns from the inside of the cap. The legs are also removed. It is allowed to combine with other types of mushrooms to enrich the taste. Pairs perfectly with vegetables. If desired, you can add sour cream and herbs to the finished dish.

prepared mushrooms;
two tbsp. l. sunflower (or olive) oil;
bulb;
tsp salt;
ground black pepper to taste.

Boil blackberries in salted water.
Drain in a colander.
Cut the hats into pieces.
Place the mushrooms in a cauldron with heated sunflower oil. Fry until excess liquid evaporates.
Sauté the onion and add to the mushrooms.
Salt and pepper.
Bring the dish to readiness over medium heat. Cooking takes approximately 7-10 minutes.

The collected mushrooms can be pickled. Cooks use pickles everywhere: they add them to soups, main courses, and pies.

1 kg of peeled fruits;
1.5 liters of warm water for soaking;
50 g salt;
5 sprigs of dill;
2 cloves of garlic;
onion head;
50 g horseradish.

Soak the mushrooms in a saline solution for 4 hours (1 tablespoon of salt per 1.5 liters of water).
Cut the onion into half rings, chop the herbs, garlic, horseradish.
Drain in a colander.
Cut the caps into small pieces, 5 cm each.
Pour 2 liters of water into a saucepan, bring to a boil, add a teaspoon of salt.
Cook until tender (about 15 minutes).
Drain the water and rinse the fruits.
Place mushrooms in a clean bowl in layers, sprinkling with spices, dill, garlic, horseradish.
Place a flat plate on top and a jar of water (for pressure).
After a week, the product is ready for use.

The fruits are suitable for drying. However, they may turn out to be somewhat harsh. The shelf life of dried mushrooms is three years. They will be useful for cooking soups and broths.

Important! If you decide to use this harvesting method, then washing mushrooms is strictly prohibited!

take healthy fruits, in the desired quantity;
wipe with a dry paper towel;
cut into thin slices (0.5 cm each);
place on a baking sheet (pre-cover it with parchment);
place the mushrooms so that they do not touch each other;
place the baking sheet in the oven (45°C);
try with a fork: if the fruits are dry (they rise easily from the parchment), then raise the temperature in the oven to 70 °C;
during the drying process, open the oven door slightly;
Repeat the steps described above for two days;
A properly prepared mushroom is plastic, bends when pressed, and does not break.

Warm Blackberry soup will lift your spirits and improve your well-being.

peeled mushrooms (300 g);
chicken fillet (200 g);
processed cheese (1-2 pcs.);
potatoes (3 medium-sized pieces);
onion head;
butter (50 g);
salt and pepper to taste.

Place the pan on the fire and place the fillet in the water.
When the broth is cooked, remove the meat from the pan and cut into cubes.
Heat a frying pan with butter on the stove, add chopped mushrooms and onions. Salt and pepper.
Put the broth back on the fire to simmer. Add potatoes to it.
After 20 minutes, pour the contents of the pan into the pan.
Before serving, add finely chopped processed cheese to the soup.

Lovers of Chinese cuisine will like it. The dish is low in calories and very tasty.

mushrooms (300 g);
carrots (1 pc.);
onion (1 pc.);
garlic (2 cloves);
coriander, sesame seeds, pepper, salt (1 tsp each);
celery (1 pc.);
honey (1 tbsp);
soy sauce (500 ml).

Chop the onion and fry in vegetable oil until golden brown.
Add mushrooms to the pan.
After 7 minutes, add the rest of the sautéed vegetables. Close the lid.
Prepare the sauce: mix salt, pepper, honey, garlic, coriander, sesame seeds, soy sauce. Pour into the pan. Simmer over low heat for approximately 5 minutes.

Delicate in taste after stewing in sour cream.

mushrooms (300 g);
sour cream (3 tbsp);
bulb;
vegetable oil (2 tbsp.);
salt and pepper to taste.

Chop the onion and cut the mushrooms into slices.
Fry the onion until golden brown, add the mushrooms.
Salt and pepper. Fry for 10-15 minutes.
Add sour cream. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 5 minutes.

Curious! Hericium branched medicinal. In China, it is considered a folk remedy for treating stomach disorders. With its help, they strengthen the immune system and nervous system.

Blackberry's favorite place to grow is on an oak block.
Young mushrooms are used for food.
Improves health.
Red Book.

source

This is a handsome man who has a very unusual shape the fruiting body is practically not found by mushroom pickers in the wild. Now it is even included in the Red Book of Russia and has the status rare species. Hedgehog coral (coral) is a mushroom that is not only tasty, but also provides health benefits. In addition, this is a real decoration of the forest - it is so beautiful. What does it look like, where does it grow and what are its beneficial properties?

Coral hedgehog (Hericium coralloides) is a representative of the genus Hericium. This edible xylotrophic mushroom has several names: coral hericium, coral hedgehog, coral hericium, branched or lattice-shaped. The word “gericium” indicates that the species belongs to the genus of the same name.

By the way, this mushroom is often called not blackberry, but coral blackberry (coral-shaped), lattice-shaped or simply coral mushroom. Indeed, its fruiting body in its structure resembles the “bushes” of corals.

the fruiting body has an irregular bush shape with lush branches, densely covered almost to the base with small fragile spines hanging down, which can have either a straight or curved shape and, as the mushroom matures, grow up to 0.5-2 cm. The branches are hollow inside. The base by which the mushroom is attached to the substrate is scaly and short - up to 1 cm. The dimensions that branched hericium can have are impressive: its width varies from 5 to 29 cm (and sometimes up to 40 cm), and its length often reaches 30 cm. The color of the surface of the fruiting body is white, cream, and with age it becomes darker - yellow or brown. This is an annual mushroom, but its mycelium lives for several years;
the flesh is white, pinkish or cream in color, turns red when damaged, and turns yellow with age. If the mushroom is dried, it will acquire a reddish tint. The spines are very fragile and are destroyed by simple touches, but in general the flesh is fibrous and elastic, has a pleasant mushroom aroma and delicate taste, and as the mushroom ages it becomes quite dense and tough;
spores are spherical or elliptical, white.

The hero of the article is a very rare mushroom, it is difficult to detect even during the growing season, which lasts from July to September-October. At the same time, he usually grows up in splendid isolation. The growing regions of the hedgehog are Siberia, the Urals, the Krasnodar Territory, the Caucasus, and the Far East.

The coral hedgehog looks so unusual in appearance that it has no similar species. It cannot be confused with any other mushroom.

Hericium lattice-shaped is an edible mushroom that is recommended to be dried, fried, and used for cooking soups. It does not require pre-boiling.

Only young fruiting bodies are eaten, as they become tough with age.

The coral hedgehog is also used in medicine, as it has certain medicinal properties. It is used to strengthen the immune system, treat gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases, and has a beneficial effect on blood circulation. Healing tinctures are prepared from the mushroom; it fights nematodes.

Hedgehog also has a positive effect on the nervous system. In the late 90s, research was conducted on mushroom fermentation broth in Germany. As a result, the substance erinacin E was obtained, which is considered one of the most powerful stimulators of nerve cell growth, and therefore this hedgehog has become a potential medicine against Alzheimer's disease. Now the substance has been obtained chemically, and work is underway to create a medicine based on it.

According to China, the coral blackberry is no worse than the comb blackberry, if you compare them healing properties. And it tastes just wonderful. But you should not collect it, since the mushroom is a protected species.

source

CORAL HEDGEHOVIK (Hericium coralloides)

Not every mushroom picker is lucky enough to come across Hericium coralloides in the forests. But if you have already met him, then it is impossible to remain indifferent while looking at his unusual appearance. The coral-shaped hedgehog fully lives up to its name; it really resembles sea coral.

The fruiting body of Hericium reaches 30–40 cm in both width and height and consists of numerous branches resembling corals, covered with soft spines.

Coral hedgehog likes to grow on fallen trunks and stumps of deciduous trees, prefers birch, linden, oak, aspen, and is less common on elm and alder. The fungus actively destroys wood, which causes white rot. As a rule, it grows in rather gloomy dark places, where its white “corals” are striking from afar.

Grows from mid-summer to mid-September.

The pulp is white, the smell is weak, the taste is neutral (although older specimens are bitter and astringent).

It has no poisonous counterparts.

It is difficult to judge the taste of this hedgehog; few people have tried it. For a long time it was believed that it was impossible to collect it due to its registration in the Red Book. Nowadays, the myth about the coral-shaped hedgehog being listed in the Red Book has been successfully dispelled. It's all about systematic confusion. At the time of compiling the Red Books, the name Hericium coralloides was understood to be a slightly different species growing on wood coniferous species, and truly a rarity - Hericium alpestre. It is he, Hericius alpine, that is truly rare, and the coral-shaped one is a very commonplace species, which is confirmed by its numerous finds and the abundance of photographs on the Internet.
To eat or not to eat? The question is rather personal. Ancient manuscripts have survived to this day that mention hericium as food.
On October 30, 1653, a decree was issued in Russia abolishing the death penalty for thieves and robbers. The death penalty was replaced by punishments. There is written confirmation dating back to August 1654 that the robbers Vanka Krugly, Kirilko Krivoy and Vaska Vybeyglaz, who were caught near the village of Molvitino, Kostroma province, were punished by eating hericium. To be fair, we note that no one had heard of corals at that time and the hedgehog was called the damn wood sponge, with which “everything in the forests was overgrown.” The robbers were forced to collect, cook the stew and eat this brew themselves. “No one died from this meal, either in a week, or in two..., or in eight, only they looked pitiful and kept asking for bread, we can’t, they said, there’s no more eating that washcloth.” And in the tenth week of such punishment, the robbers knelt before the village residents, repented of their sins, vowed never to break the law again and, as a sign of confirmation of their intentions, went to the monastery and there led a righteous life. The news of this story spread far beyond the Kostroma province and reached other robbers; they, frightened by such a fate, destroyed all the wood sponge, after which it almost disappeared from our forests.

So, it is quite obvious that irresponsible destruction of mushrooms can significantly reduce mushroom yields. And thanks to ancient chronicles, we can trace how the people's understanding of the coral hedgehog has changed.

There are research results on the medicinal properties of Hericium. In Chinese medicine, Hericium is used in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, and is also useful for increasing immunity, functioning of the respiratory system, regulating nervous diseases, and stimulating hematopoiesis. And a special Chinese tincture of Hericium is still used to lift a person out of depression.

It is not for nothing that the coral hedgehog grows on fallen trees. When are you lucky enough to meet this the most beautiful mushroom, don’t rush to pass by, sit on a log, admire the beauty of hericium, look at its complex anatomy, carefully touch its “branches” and feel the joy of contact with Nature. And if you feel that this is “your mushroom,” take it and fry it.

source

In terms of color and shape, blackberry mushrooms, which belong to the Hericiaceae family, are perhaps the most unusual. However, they are classified as edible and, if prepared correctly, are perfect for both first and second courses.

In terms of color and shape, blackberry mushrooms belong to the Hericiaceae family.

Blackberries got their name due to the external similarity in color of the cap and the berry of the same name. The fruiting bodies have a light lilac color, unusual for mushrooms. However, different types color may vary greatly. In terms of size, almost all representatives have 7-8 cm in the stem and 10-15 cm in diameter of the cap.

Blackberries often grow in families, forming half rings, which are also called witch rings - this sight looks too mysterious. In Russia they are found almost everywhere within the temperate climate zone. Favorite place growth - coniferous forests on sandy and sandy loam soils. Fruiting bodies grow from July until mid-autumn.

Along with the generally accepted name blackberry, mushrooms are called hedgehogs, and they also say: hedgehog mushroom, hedgehog mushroom. Most likely, this is due to the external similarity in the texture of the caps of some species: relief formations grow on them, which are painted in darker tones. From a distance, the fruiting bodies resemble hedgehogs lying on the grass.

In Russia, blackberries are found almost everywhere within the temperate climate zone.

Blackberry mushrooms are classified as edible, although mushroom pickers are often afraid to take some of their varieties - for example, yellow hedgehog has similarities with chanterelles and, in part, with toadstools.

However, among these species there are no mushrooms that are hazardous to health. The aroma of blackberries is rich, and the taste is pleasant, with a pronounced sourness, which gives the dish a delicate touch. It is important to take into account only one piece of advice - these mushrooms are collected only when they are young (small in size and with light flesh). As they grow older, they begin to grow bitter. However, this problem can be solved if, before starting to prepare the dish, you soak the fruiting bodies in cold water for 1-2 hours.

THIS IS INTERESTING

Blackberries are perhaps the only mushrooms that practically do not lose volume during frying. The reason is not only the dense pulp, but also the unusual texture - thanks to the tightly running fibers, the fruiting bodies are preserved during heat treatment.

hericenones;
erinacines;
beta-D-glucans;
arabitinol;
palmitic acid;
D-threitol;
cyatane and its derivatives.

Thanks to this, it is used not only for culinary but also for medicinal purposes:

antibacterial and wound-healing properties make it possible to use an ointment based on blackberry extract not only for the treatment of skin diseases, but also for cosmetic purposes;
the components of the fungus promote blood renewal, as they take part in hematopoietic processes;
antitumor effects are used in the treatment of benign and malignant tumors.

THIS IS INTERESTING

The variegated hedgehog (also known as the imbricated hedgehog, variegated sarcodon, or kolchak) is most often found in pine forests. It is best to look for it in August and September. Gives quite large hats(15-25 cm) on a short stem (3-4 cm). In some areas it is called the chicken because its mottled brown tones closely resemble the color of its feathers.

The stem can be either white, brown or purple. With age, the fruiting bodies can turn rusty and even gray - it is better not to collect such mushrooms, as they give a bitter aftertaste.

Variegated blackberry

This species has a very uncharacteristic shape, which is completely different from classic mushrooms. It resembles a white furry muff, which hangs from a tree in a semicircle. Comb blackberry is distributed mainly in regions with more humid climatic conditions– in the Far East, Crimea and Northern China.

Despite its rather strange appearance, the pulp is edible. It’s interesting that its taste is unusual - it’s more reminiscent of boiled shrimp.

In terms of originality of appearance, the coral blackberry may well compete not only with representatives of its own family, but also in the entire kingdom of mushrooms. The fruiting body really resembles coral- a lush bush with fluffy white branches that settles directly on tree trunks.

It is very rare to see such a mushroom; it grows in the dead wood of deciduous trees and on stumps. In young representatives the flesh is soft, but with age it becomes hard and even brittle. It has a pleasant aroma and is completely edible.

Coral blackberry

I wonder what Blackberries, which are not very popular in our latitudes, are considered a real delicacy.: French chefs undertook to prepare it, who developed many recipes in which this mushroom gives its best taste. It is used in first and second courses, sauces; Blackberries can also be pickled and pickled.

The basic principle is that the fruiting bodies need to be washed well and prepared for further use. They are boiled in slightly salted water for 15-20 minutes. It is this technique that can significantly improve the taste of the subsequent dish.

Comb blackberry

This is an excellent option with a delicate and nutritious taste that will warm you up and lift your spirits. The ingredients are as follows:

mushrooms (pre-prepared) – 300 g;
chicken fillet – 200 g;
processed cheese – 200 g;
potatoes – 3 pcs.;
onion – 1 pc.;
tablespoon butter;
salt pepper.

The meat is cooked as if for broth, cooled and cut into cubes. In the meantime, the mushrooms and onions are fried in butter - at the same stage they can be seasoned with salt and pepper. Then the broth is returned to the stove and boiled together with finely chopped potatoes (you can also turn them into puree). After final preparation, all ingredients are mixed, and when serving, melted cheese, cut into small pieces, is sprinkled on each plate.

This is a great addition to a second course and can be made very simply. You will need the following components:

pre-prepared mushrooms – 300 g;
sour cream – 200 g;
onion – 1 head;
salt, pepper, herbs.

The mushrooms are fried in vegetable oil for 10 minutes, then finely chopped onions are added to the frying pan and the heat is reduced - it is necessary to simmer the mixture until the onions are fully cooked. Then add sour cream; if necessary, you can add a few tablespoons of broth. Add spices and simmer until done.

source

Saturday, rainy day!! You can’t work in the fields,” which is why we went to the forests to pick mushrooms on Sunday. It was completely dry in the forest, so there was “silence in the air,” but it was felt that something was brewing, small mushrooms began to crawl out.

you see them, these are little mushrooms!

There are a lot of pigs scattered around, but we don’t take them because... armed with a certificate from back in 1993, which says that these cute mushrooms ACCUMULATE NITRATES, TOXINS AND POISONS.

The rule “the further into the forest, the more firewood, and the thicker the partisans” on mushrooms are not distributed. You can go far into a deep forest and return without prey. Or you can collect a full basket right outside the village outskirts (or country house, if in a modern way). You need to know mushroom places. And be able to identify them.

Yes, another classic, but definitely correct advice: Never take unfamiliar or suspicious mushrooms. You will be more alive.

It's a pity, because... There are a lot of them growing. True, taking into accountNobody takes them personally to visit this, so to speak, forest.

We caught a frog (played a little and then released it to the kids)

A beautiful bronze fungus - probably a toadstool or fly agaric.

Along the way there are stumps destroyed by life, strewn with “toadstools”.

The time has not come yet: of the more or less “Ylitny” mushrooms, only boletus mushrooms were found, and in an hour we cut up a whole bucket, out of all the prey there is only one white mushroom. Yes, as it turned out, the coral hedgehog also belongs to very rare and elite mushrooms.

My daughter found a mushroom listed in the Red Book, cut it off out of ignorance (I decided to show this beauty to the children) the mushroom is certainly beautiful, there are no words. Just thin lace. They said on TV that it is more valuable than truffles among the French. And there, in foreign countries, a friend told me that he had just recently returned from a business trip to New Zealand. There, collecting gifts of nature in the forest is prohibited by law, be it mushrooms, berries or nuts. All this is predays Intended only for forest birds and animals. In case of violation of the ban, the violator will face a heavy fine. Go to the store and buy everything you need there.

And we say: “Thank you forest, for the mushrooms, for the berries, for your healing air, look, don’t get sick, and see you again!” We're heading home»

Coral hedgehog or as it is also called, coral hericium has its name for a reason. The coral-shaped urchin is indeed very similar to real sea corals. The mushroom is very beautiful and unusual .

Adult coral hedgehogs branch out in different directions, creating an extraordinary atmosphere of mysteriousness in the area. underwater world. In the forest twilight against the background of dark tree trunks it looks especially impressive, as it appears snow-white.

Coral hedgehog has a branched bushy fruit body of irregular shape. The coral-shaped “branches” below are covered with numerous thin spines, the size of which is up to 2 centimeters in length. The total size of the mushroom, depending on the growing conditions, ranges from 5 cm to 40 cm in width and up to 30 cm in height. The coral-shaped hedgehog is attached to the substrate with the help of a stalk. A spore-bearing layer in the form of thin, brittle spines covers the entire surface of the mushroom. White mushroom spore powder.

The nature of the development of the fruiting part of the mushroom changes with age: young individuals grow, spreading their branches in different directions, and mature ones direct them downward. Hericium coralliformes grows on fallen trunks and stumps of deciduous trees, most often birch, linden, oak, aspen, and less commonly found on elm and alder. The fungus actively destroys wood, which causes white rot.

You can see this miracle in the forest from mid-July to the end of September in single copies. The fruiting body is annual, the mycelium (mycelium) is perennial.

Coral hedgehog not only has a beautiful appearance but also has an edible fruiting body. Its flesh is white and turns pink when touched. It has a pleasant mushroom smell and taste. The more mature the mushroom, the tougher the pulp, so only young mushrooms are eaten. It can be fried, boiled, pickled and dried. But, since the mushroom is listed in the Red Book, it cannot be collected.

Note: Coral hedgehog belongs to the hericiaceae family. Because of its appearance (especially at a young age), it really resembles coral, and it creates a feeling of fragility. There are no poisonous doubles. Listed in the Red Book.

So, out of ignorance, we cut this mushroom, and we will cook it (the good stuff won’t go to waste). We washed the mushroom and set it to cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes.

Boiled mushroom, remove and dry. Then fried in butter.

Very tasty, meaty, a little like champignon and reminded me of asparagus. It has a distinct mushroom smell and taste.

The rest of the mushrooms, boletus and white mushrooms, go into an electric dryer (this is a very convenient thing - a dryer)

The rest of the mushrooms are fried and frozen.

After 6 hours, the already dried ones can be put away in a box.

Did you like our site? Join or subscribe (you will receive notifications about new topics by email) to our channel in MirTesen!

source

Blackberry mushroom photo and description which is presented in this article, has a burning taste, but some representatives of this species are edible and tasty. Let's take a closer look at whether it is possible to use it and what varieties of this type exist.

There are many varieties of mushrooms, there are edible, conditionally edible, and also inedible. Although there are no toxic substances in these mushrooms, their taste is mediocre. They taste a little like chanterelles and honey mushrooms. It is better to eat young blackberries.

Although the blackberry mushroom is a little similar in appearance and taste to chanterelles, they are not related. It is difficult to confuse it with poisonous or any other mushrooms. The blackberry has a striking difference: on the underside of the cap it has peculiar spines. Although the top of the cap is smooth or slightly pimply.

Like chanterelles, blackberries grow in large colonies and are not affected by pests. There are more than 10 types of blackberries, many are listed in the Red Book.

Blackberries are found in all forests of temperate climates, and grow less frequently closer to cold regions. Some species prefer southern regions, for example, combed blackberry, which is found in subtropical forests with a humid climate (foothills of the Caucasus, Primorsky, Amur Territories, Khabarovsk and the surrounding area).

Blackberries prefer sandy soils in dry coniferous forests, but some species prefer limestone. Mushrooms are found alone, but sometimes they form “witch rings.” Some species prefer to grow on dead trees. Sometimes they grow in:

dead wood;
stumps;
wood substrate;
loose hollows;
broken or broken branches of living trees.

Depending on the variety, blackberries are harvested from June to November.

The most common 6 types edible mushrooms. Below we will look at How looks like a blackberry mushroom, its types and their characteristics.

White blackberry mushroom yellow Scientifically considered one species, they differ only in the color of the caps, according to the name. Yellow may have a slightly reddish cap. U white blackberry mushroom the taste is more delicate.

Finding them won't be difficult. They grow on moss and create a continuous carpet of their colorful caps.

Use in cooking: It is edible, tastes similar to yellow chanterelles, and does not require pre-boiling before cooking. This type can be dried, but it is better not to use it for pickling and pickling.

Interesting Facts. Yellow blackberries are often considered inedible and false appearance, since it is very similar to a chanterelle. Because of this, many of these mushrooms are simply trampled, although they are very nutritious and have a variety of medicinal properties. Even squirrels collect these mushrooms for the winter, and they choose only the best of the best for harvesting.

Blackberry mushroom has other names - mushroom noodles or lion's mane.

It grows on trees, looks like a growth, can be round or irregular in shape.
It can reach 20 cm in diameter and weigh up to 1.5 kg.
The full-length surface has spines that look like thin noodles or wavy hair.
The flesh is white, turning yellow as the mushroom ages or when it is dried.

Use in cooking: Edible, no need to boil before cooking. Well suited for frying, drying, making soups, fillings.

Used as a flavoring additive in Food Industry. The taste of the mushroom is similar to crab, lobster or shrimp, which is why it is offered to gourmets in restaurants.

Blackberry coral mushroom also called coral mushroom or lattice-shaped blackberry. He has a very exotic look. It looks like a coral bush, with small spines, up to 2 cm in length. In fact, it is just a divided mushroom cap, not a bush. It can reach 30 cm in diameter. The pulp is elastic and fibrous, it has a pleasant taste and aroma.

The mushroom chooses its place of germination in an interesting way:

in the southern regions it prefers to grow on linden, oak or elm;
in the temperate zone - on aspen or birch.

Use in cooking: Edible, no need to pre-boil. Suitable for drying, frying, making soups.

Interesting! Only young specimens are eaten, because adults have tasteless and hard flesh.

Most blackberries are conditionally edible or not edible.

Variegated blackberry mushroom called differently: scaly, imbricated, chicken or hawk. It has such names due to the color and type of mushroom.

Large scales are located on the entire upper part of the cap. Therefore, some people think that it looks like it is covered with tiles, while others see chicken plumage.
The hat can be 20-25 cm in diameter and has a concavity in its center. It is velvety, dark brown in color, and the scales are darker.
A young mushroom has white, juicy flesh, but an adult has gray-brown, hard and dry flesh.
An adult mushroom has a thick and hollow stem.
The spines reach 1 cm in length, and the color changes closer to brown with age.

Use in cooking: Edible, has low taste qualities. For cooking, it is better to use young soft fruits (old specimens are hard and bitter). Most often it is fried without prior boiling. For salting and marinating, boil for 5-10 minutes to remove the bitterness.

The hat is irregularly shaped, red-orange, with rolled edges.
The spines are located on the lower part and extend onto a thick and dense yellowish stalk.
The fleshy flesh is cream-colored and turns orange when squeezed.
The mushroom grows in mixed or coniferous forests and is harvested in the fall.

It is also called ice mushroom.

This species is rare. Looks like biennial dryweed.
The cap is up to 10 cm in diameter, red-brown in color with light stripes.
The leg is thin, red in color.
The fruits appear in early autumn.
It is not used for food.

This species is found from mid-summer to the end of October, in pine and mixed forests. But it is very rare.
The hat can be 3-8 cm in diameter.
In young fruits the cap is bright blue, over time it becomes gray and then completely black.
The leg is thick and short, black.
The firm flesh is also black.
The spines are blue, then turn gray.

This species is bizarre and therefore easily recognizable.

The shape of the cap of this mushroom is irregular, up to 4 cm in diameter, black in color.
White spines are located on the lower part. The leg is short, black, with a felt coating on it.
Prefers to grow on sandy soil in mixed or coniferous forests.
The fruits appear from late summer until the first frost.

In 100 g fresh product contains:

46.19 g proteins;
5.08 g fat;
48.73 g carbohydrates;
22 kcal.

The chemical composition is rich and varied:

Of all the representatives of blackberries, the lion's mane is considered the most useful. It contains:

antioxidants;
polysaccharides;
vitamins;
vegetable proteins;
calcium;
iron;
phosphorus.

Blackberries can have a positive effect on the human body:

fights depression, increased excitability, helps restore emotional balance;
has a therapeutic effect on the gastrointestinal tract;
helps lower cholesterol levels;
restores metabolic and hematopoietic processes;
strengthens the immune system;
helps smooth out the symptoms that appear in Alzheimer's or Parkinson's diseases;
prevents the formation and occurrence of cancer.

Thanks to the fatty acids, phenols and polysaccharides in their composition, mushrooms have a detrimental effect, like chemotherapy, on cancer cells. These tumors become smaller or disappear altogether. Extracts are made from the mushroom, which are used to combat viral, fungal and bacterial infections. Traditional medicine also uses blackberries to prepare ointments for burns.

This mushroom can also be grown in the countryside. They are sown in open ground from April to October, and if there are closed myceliums, then all year round. Depending on the type of mushroom, wood is used instead of soil. These can be coniferous or hardwood, fresh logs without branches or wet logs. The suitable diameter will be 15-20 cm, and the length up to 1 meter. The dry material is placed in water for a couple of days, and then taken out to drain. If logs are used, they must first be prepared:

The first fruits will appear no earlier than after 6 months.

Fresh mushrooms, without refrigeration, can be stored for 2-3 hours. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Before you send them for storage, there are a few things you need to do:

Wash the mushrooms thoroughly and soak in salt water for several hours to remove pests.
Dry, if damaged, remove them.
Place in a deep container and cover with a napkin.

These mushrooms absorb foreign odors well, so they should be stored away from other foods. Blackberries should not be stored in plastic bags.

Another storage option is drying for the winter. Properly dried mushrooms can be stored for 2-3 years, and can be used to prepare a large number of dishes.

Blackberries are rarely used in cooking. Although the French value them very much, they prepare various dishes and consider them one of the best mushrooms.

Something to remember! Harmful substances can accumulate in fruiting bodies, so it is necessary to monitor where they are collected. Only those specimens that are collected in environmentally friendly places are eaten.

Here are some tips for preparing blackberries:

before cooking it is necessary to remove the spines;
some types should be boiled before continuing to cook to remove the bitterness from them;
comb, coral and antennal species can be immediately salted or fried without boiling.

Before frying mushrooms, you need to wash them and remove any remaining mycelium.
If the fruits require boiling, then this procedure is carried out first.
Mushrooms are cut and placed in a heated frying pan with oil.
It is necessary to fry over low heat, and add the onion, cut into rings or half rings, when the mushrooms are soft.
Add salt and cover if all the juice has evaporated.
Mushrooms are considered ready when they are soft and dark and emit a pleasant aroma.
You can make them softer and piquant by adding sour cream a couple of minutes before they are fully cooked.

Watch the video! Coral hedgehog. Cooking quickly

It is necessary to wash the mushrooms, remove excess debris and spines.
Place the fruits in a saucepan of cold water and bring to a boil.
Cook for 15-20 minutes.
If you are making soup, it is better to add other types of mushrooms, since only blackberries will have a weak aroma.

White, yellow and comb blackberries are considered the most delicious. Although it is not very appreciated by mushroom pickers. Some people don't like to mess with spikes. It is important to cook only young specimens because older ones have bitter and hard flesh.

source

The blackberry mushroom is not popular among mushroom pickers because some species have a pungent taste. However, there are varieties that are classified as edible and tasty mushrooms.

The appearance and taste of blackberries resembles chanterelles, although these mushrooms are not related. Blackberries are difficult to confuse with poisonous or any other representatives of the mushroom kingdom. The main distinguishing feature is the peculiar spines on the underside of the cap. The upper part of the cap can be smooth or pimply.

Like chanterelles, blackberries grow in large colonies and are rarely found affected by pests. There are more than a dozen species of blackberries, many of which are listed in the Red Book.

Despite the fact that the mushroom has a pleasant smell, not every gourmet will eat it. In terms of taste, it occupies the fourth category. Only young mushrooms are used for culinary purposes., since mature individuals begin to taste bitter. To eliminate the bitter taste, the raw materials should be boiled.

To prepare the dish, usually only the caps of the fruiting body are used. They have a mild sweetish taste and a pleasant nutty aroma. 100 grams of product contains 22 kcal.

French cuisine has many mushroom recipes for main courses, as well as mousses, juliennes, appetizers or side dishes. The powder made from dried specimens is used as a seasoning that adds a piquant taste to dishes.

Unpretentious mushrooms have spread throughout the temperate zone of the Northern Hemisphere, including the vast territory of Russia. Blackberries prefer to settle in both coniferous and deciduous forests.

The hedgehog-like mushroom grows on tree trunks, usually birch, oak or beech. Settles on both living and dead wood. Plant hedgehogs love warm and humid climates. The fruiting season begins in mid-autumn and continues until the first frost.

Blackberries originally belonged to the genus Hydnum. Subsequently, scientists, having identified differences between the species, divided the genus into families. Most of them are quite rare, and some of them are listed in the Red Book.

A common feature of all species is the spore-bearing layer (hymenophore), which, instead of tubes and plates located under the cap, has needle-shaped spines. Although they are not sharp, they are quite tough. The fruit body varies in shape from the traditional cap-shaped to coral-shaped and branched.

A conditionally edible mushroom of the genus Sarcodon, which is popularly called kolchak or hawk. The mushroom was nicknamed variegated because of its variegated color and large convex scales on the cap, similar to tiles.

The brown cap grows to a considerable size, reaching a diameter of 20 cm. In the central part it has a funnel-shaped depression. In young individuals, the edge of the cap is rolled up. At the bottom there are brittle spines that go down to a massive stem, which is painted in lighter colors than the cap. The inside is whitish and dense. Prefers to settle in coniferous forests.

The fleshy cap with a diameter of 6 to 12 cm has a flat shape and a concave middle. Depending on the region of growth, the color varies from white to orange. Smooth to the touch with a film that is difficult to peel off. On the lower part, yellow, fragile spines grow, descending to the stem.

Often there are specimens with a leg attached off-center. The pulp has a dense structure and a whitish color. The height of the cylindrical leg is up to 6 cm. It is slightly expanded in the lower part. During growth, parts of the fruiting body can grow together.

Most often it grows in cool places, covered with a dense cover of grass or moss. It can grow singly or in groups, forming long rows or circles. Fruits from mid-summer to late autumn.

This unusually shaped mushroom turns the forest into a mysterious and magical one. But since it is listed in the Red Book, the likelihood of meeting him is very small. Usually the fungus settles singly on the stumps and trunks of fallen deciduous trees.

The shape of the branched fruit resembles an underwater coral, reaching 20 centimeters in size. Smooth or curved spines, growing up to 2 cm, are painted white or cream.

The structure of the fruiting body is elastic-fibrous, white with a pleasant smell and taste. In mature individuals it becomes harsh.

The appearance of the fruiting body resembles a noodle, which gave it synonymous names: bearded mushroom, mushroom noodle and lion's mane. Found on living and dead deciduous wood. The shape of the mushroom is round or irregular, reaching 20 cm. The weight of one body can be 1.5 kg.

IN finished form reminds me of seafood. The color is on the spectrum between cream and light beige. The fleshy pulp dries from white to yellowish. In addition to good taste, it has medicinal properties.

In some countries it is very rare, so it is grown artificially on a substrate of sawdust or straw. The product is actively used in the food industry due to its similar taste to shrimp, and also for medical purposes as an immune stimulant.

Of all the known species of this mushroom, it is the lion's mane that is characterized by the maximum amount useful properties. It contains antioxidants, phosphorus, calcium, iron, vegetable proteins, polysaccharides and vitamins.

Eating blackberries has the following effects on the body:

improves the functioning of the respiratory system;
contributes to the successful fight against depression and increased excitability;
has a therapeutic effect on the gastrointestinal tract;
normalizes emotional condition;
smoothes the symptoms of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases;
reduces cholesterol levels;
strengthens the body's defenses;
normalizes metabolic processes;
normalizes hematopoietic processes;
prevents the occurrence of malignant tumors.

The presence of fatty acids, polysaccharides and phenols fight cancer cells similar to chemotherapy. As a result, the tumors resolve or decrease in size. Extracts obtained from the fungus are used in the production of means to combat fungal, viral and bacterial infections. In traditional medicine, ointments for skin diseases are made from it.

Shelf life fresh mushrooms small, only 2-3 hours. Then the fruits begin to darken. If you need to preserve the crop for a longer period, it should be placed in the refrigerator, following several steps:

to get rid of pests, mushrooms need to be soaked in salt water;
allow the water to drain and remove damaged areas;
place in a deep container and cover with a paper towel.

The advantage of blackberries over other representatives of the mushroom kingdom is that they do not have milky juice, which gives the fruit an unpleasant bitter taste. In view of this feature, boiling the raw product in lightly salted water has a different meaning.

It is recommended to boil the harvested crop in order to soften the aromatic forest product. After this procedure, it can be fried or stewed. Although boiling is not a strict rule, it improves the taste of the mushroom. To process mushrooms for the winter, it is recommended to pickle, freeze or dry them.

Blackberries, like all mushrooms, like a sponge, accumulate toxic substances from the environment. To avoid causing harm to the body, you should go looking for mushrooms only in ecologically clean areas.

source

The blackberry mushroom inhabits dry (mostly coniferous) forests and loves sandy soils. Several species of these fungi are known, all of them form mycorrhizae with coniferous trees. Found singly and in groups of several specimens; sometimes they form so-called “witch rings”.

Almost all types of blackberry mushrooms - coral-shaped, variegated, combed, yellow - are distributed throughout the temperate forest zone of Russia, in some places quite often. They bear fruit in July-November.

In this article we will bring to your attention photos of blackberry mushrooms, their descriptions, interesting facts and recommendations for use in cooking.

Family: Hericiaceae (Hericiaceae).

Synonyms: coral mushroom, hericium coral-shaped, blackberry lattice-shaped.

Description. This blackberry has branched out its cap so much that it has become shaped like a cattail. The entire mushroom is bushy, coral-branched, white, sometimes with a yellowish or pinkish-flesh tint, and grows up to 30 cm in diameter.

Pay attention to the photo of coral blackberry: it has long, 1-2 cm, thin, rather brittle thorns.

The pulp is white, fibrous, elastic, slightly yellowish with age, with a pleasant taste and smell.

It is found throughout the forest zone of Russia, except for the northern part. Inhabits forests of various types, appearing on dead trunks, branches, and in the hollows of living deciduous trees. In the southern regions it prefers elm, oak and linden, in temperate forests- mainly birch and aspen. Fruits in June-October.

Similar species. A closely related species is the very rare alpine blackberry (H. alpestre), which differs primarily in its woody substrate. This similar species of coral-shaped blackberry grows on stumps, large dead wood and dead trees of spruce, fir and cedar pine in mountain, less often lowland taiga forests.

Medicinal properties: In 1998, German researchers isolated erinacin E from the fermentation broth of H. coralloides. This molecule turned out to be a highly selective agonist for opioid receptors in the nervous system. Erinacin E turned out to be a powerful stimulator of nerve growth factor synthesis, which immediately made it a potential drug for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. In 2008, Japanese scientists managed to synthesize erinacin E purely chemically. Currently, a medical drug based on it is being developed.

Chinese researchers believe that the medicinal properties of coral blackberry are in no way inferior to those of another world-famous medicinal blackberry - comb blackberry.

Use in cooking: Edible, does not require preliminary boiling. Used for frying, preparing soups, fillings, drying.

Family: Bankeraceae (Bankeraceae).

Synonyms: tiled blackberry, scaly blackberry, kolchak, chicken, hawk.

Description. The cap is up to 25 cm in diameter, flat-convex, then concave in the middle, dark brown, with thick, large raised black (brown)-brown scales located concentrically. Young mushrooms have a velvety cap surface.

As you can see in the photo of the variegated blackberry, the flesh of the mushroom is first whitish, then grayish-brown; in young mushrooms it is dense and juicy, in mature ones it is dry and hard. It has a specific spicy smell and bitter taste. The lower surface of the cap has grayish-white needle-like spines that turn brown with age, up to 1 cm in length. The stalk is 4-8 X 1-1.5 cm, thick and strong, unevenly cylindrical, usually widened downwards, pale grayish, sometimes with a purple tint, becoming hollow in mature mushrooms.

Medicinal properties: For the fungus, laboratory methods have established an immunostimulating effect and an effect on lowering cholesterol levels.

An acetone extract of the fruiting bodies of the blackberry fungus completely stops the growth of human leukemia cells (HL-60). The main active ingredient is ergosterol peroxide, which in its pure form stops the development of stomach cancer and adenocarcinoma cells.

The antibacterial effect of blackberry mycelial extract on Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis has been shown.

Use in cooking: An edible mushroom with low taste, it is better to collect only young, softer fruiting bodies (old ones become hard and acquire a bitter taste). The main use of variegated blackberries in cooking is frying. In this case, the mushroom does not require preliminary boiling. You can salt and pickle; the slight bitter taste goes away after 5-10 minutes of boiling. In some European countries, the powder from the dried fruiting bodies is used as a flavoring seasoning.

Interesting Facts. In Norway, the old fruiting bodies of the variegated blackberry are used to produce a bluish-green pigment that is used to dye sheep's wool.

Family: Blackberries (Hydnaceae).

Synonyms: Notched blackberry.

Description. The cap is 5-15 cm in diameter, fleshy, dry and dense, pinkish-yellow or yellowish to almost orange, flat, with a concave middle, usually uneven, with downward-curved edges. Young mushrooms have a slightly convex cap, slightly velvety.

Look carefully at the photo of yellow blackberries: when viewed from above, the mushrooms look quite similar to chanterelles. The pulp is whitish-yellowish, dense, with a pleasant smell, and becomes corky with age (according to some reports, it begins to taste bitter). The lower surface of the cap has short, yellowish-pink, very brittle, easily crumbling needle-like spines descending onto the stalk. The leg is 2-8 X 1-3 cm, dense, solid, always lighter than the cap.

It is found throughout the temperate forest zone of Russia. Forms mycorrhizae with many forest species. Grows in forests and bushes on any soil, but more often on calcareous soil.

If you look at a photo of the yellow blackberry mushroom in its natural habitat, you can imagine a bright, sunny blanket - they abundantly settle on the moss cover in light forests and sometimes merge into a single whole with caps and legs. They bear fruit from July to October.

Similar species. Two species very closely related to the yellow blackberry - whitish (H. albidum) and reddish-yellow (H. rufes-cens) - differ mainly in color and slightly smaller sizes. The first is whitish, sometimes almost white, the second is reddish-red, reddish-yellow. Both have similar nutritional and medicinal properties.

Medicinal properties: Yellow blackberries are high in organic acids, amino acids, fatty acids and mycosterol.

The isolated alkylating agent diepoxide, called repanediol, showed high cytotoxic activity against cancer cells of various lines, being especially active against gastric cancer. Repandiol binds paired DNA strands of cancer cells with additional bridges, which prevents their divergence and, accordingly, the division of tumor cells.

The mycelial culture extract showed 70% inhibition of sarcoma-180, while the fresh fruit extract showed 90% inhibition of sarcoma-180 and Ehrlich carcinoma.

Chloroform extract of the fruiting bodies of the fungus showed antibacterial activity against Enterobacter aerogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis.

Unidentified yellow blackberry polysaccharides have been shown to reduce blood cholesterol levels in laboratory experiments.

Use in cooking: It is edible, almost no different in taste and consistency from yellow chanterelle, and does not require preliminary boiling. All types are suitable culinary processing, drying, not very suitable for salting and pickling.

Interesting Facts. Many mushroom pickers consider yellow blackberries to be inedible, and since they are often confused with chanterelles, entire families of these beautiful-tasting, nutritious and medicinal mushrooms are trampled down. Another interesting fact in favor of the yellow blackberry mushroom: even squirrels collect them as winter reserves, and these animals are very selective about mushrooms and drag only the best of the best into their “dryers”.

Blackberries are collected en masse and sold in vegetable markets in Italy, France, Bulgaria, Spain, Mexico and Canada.

Family: Hericiaceae (Hericiaceae).

Synonyms: mushroom noodles.

Description. The fruiting body of the combed hedgehog (hericium erinaceus) is up to 20 cm in size and weighs up to 1.5 kg, round or irregular in shape, from cream to light beige in color. The pulp is whitish, fleshy, and turns yellow when dry. The spore-bearing layer is spiny and looks like thin needles hanging down.

Grows on the trunks of living or dead deciduous trees (oak, beech, birch), most often in places where the bark is broken or broken off branches, singly. In Russia it is found in the Amur Region, Khabarovsk Territory, Primorsky Territory, in the foothills of the Caucasus, and is rare everywhere. Fruits from July to October.

Medicinal properties: Blackberry polysaccharides neutralize the effect of gastric acid, protecting the walls of the stomach from its effects in the presence of an ulcerative surface, stimulate the regeneration of the mucous surface of the stomach, and promote the healing of ulcers on the inner surface of the digestive tract. Thanks to its properties, comb blackberry improves blood circulation in the digestive organs, stimulates absorption in the stomach and intestines, enhances peristalsis, and prevents the development of tumor processes in the alimentary canal.

In addition, mushroom polysaccharides stimulate the body’s immunity, reduce fatigue and lower blood lipids.

In laboratory conditions, when studying the medicinal properties of the mushroom extract, its active components were identified: cyatane derivatives, erinacins, hericenones, p-D-glucans, ergosterol. Blackberries contain 5 different antitumor polysaccharides, as well as other antitumor substances - phenols and fatty acids, which act directly on cancer cells, as in chemotherapy.

According to the results of clinical trials, it was shown that the mushroom is effective against benign and malignant tumors: fibroids, myomas, cysts, pituitary adenomas, prostate adenomas, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, lung, liver, and breast cancer. Positive dynamics were observed in oncological diseases: tumors in patients significantly decreased in size, some malignant tumors completely resolved. The most promising is the use of mushroom extract for pancreatic cancer, since this type of cancer is difficult to treat traditional methods.

In Russia, the antitumor effect of blackberry was studied by specialists from the State Research Institute for the Research of New Antibiotics named after. G.F. Gause of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences and the Institute of Organic Chemistry named after. N. D. Zelinsky. Laboratory mice were inoculated with two tumors - T-lymphoma EL-4 and T-cell lymphocytic leukemia P388, and then they were injected with an aqueous extract of the fungus. It was proven that the aqueous extract of the mushroom has a pronounced, statistically significant independent antitumor effect against both tumors studied. The antitumor effect consisted of inhibiting tumor growth and prolonging the life of animals.

Korean researchers have found: substances in aqueous and alcoholic extracts of blackberry activate macrophages and increase their synthesis of nitric oxide and the expression of cytokines.

In oncological practice, the mushroom extract can be used both as monotherapy and in combination treatment oncological diseases, in such cases, the extract goes well with chemotherapy and radiation, relieving the negative symptoms of such procedures.

Additionally, comb blackberry activates T- and B-lymphocytes of the immune system, doubling the growth rate of lymphocytes and increasing their number three times from the original.

Hericenon and erinacin E, isolated from the mycelial extract, turned out to be powerful stimulators of the synthesis of nerve growth factor (the NGF protein necessary for the brain to develop and maintain important sensory neurons), which immediately made them a potential drug for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Thus, erinacin E and hericenon can restore the nervous tissue of the brain and restore the functioning of neurons. To date, research is being conducted on this area of use of comb blackberry.

Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the fungus showed antibacterial activity, inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Helicobacter pylori, as well as antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger.

Application in folk medicine: In Eastern medicine it is used for neurasthenia, insomnia, impotence, to restore the nervous system, as a stimulator of growth and regeneration of nerve cell processes, as an effective antiseptic and immunostimulant, and is sometimes used to treat atrophic gastritis, bronchitis and lung diseases. The mushroom stimulates the digestion of food, improves overall well-being and improves metabolism, and is used as an antigerontological drug.

Use in cooking: Edible, does not require pre-boiling. Used for frying, preparing soups, fillings, drying.

Used in the food industry as a flavoring additive. The mushroom's taste is reminiscent of crab, lobster or shrimp, which is why it can now be found on the menu of gourmet restaurants.

The coral mushroom is a rather rare specimen, which many would bypass due to its unusual nature. appearance. It reaches a size of up to 40 centimeters and resembles corals. Despite the fact that outwardly he does not inspire confidence in everyone, poisonous doubles does not, so you can collect the mushroom without fear.

Various dishes are prepared from blackberry, as this species is also called, from salads to soups. It has an almost neutral taste and a barely perceptible aroma, but when properly prepared it perfectly diversifies the everyday menu.

Salad recipe with coral mushroom and smoked meat

A fairly simple salad to make that will interest lovers of everything unusual.

Ingredients

Servings: – + 7

Coral hedgehog 150 g
Fresh cucumber 2 pcs.
Bulb onions 1 PC.
Smoked meat 100 g
Chicken egg 2 pcs.
Sunflower oil 2 tbsp. l.
Mayonnaise to taste
Black pepper 1 pinch
Salt to taste

Per serving

Calories: 252 kcal

Proteins: 4.5 g

Fats: 25 g

Carbohydrates: 2.3 g

30 min. Video recipe Print

Soak the mushrooms for 60 minutes in water in a 2:1 ratio. Then cut into pieces about one centimeter long and fry in refined oil. After 10 minutes, add finely chopped onion. Cook as much more. Place on a plate and wait to cool.

Boil the eggs hard for 12 minutes after the water has boiled. Cool in ice liquid, remove the shell and chop into cubes.

Grind the remaining ingredients: meat into small pieces, cucumbers into strips.

Combine everything together, season with mayonnaise, add pepper and mix. Add salt if necessary.

Advice: If you use large cucumbers with thick skin for a salad, we recommend cutting it off with a thimble and removing overgrown seeds.

Coral Mushroom Stew

The recipe for making blackberry soup is no different from the standard technology for first courses. But the result has one peculiarity associated with the crispy structure of the mushrooms.

Number of servings: 12

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Energy value

calorie content – 40.3 kcal;
proteins – 2.6 g;
fats – 0.4 g;
carbohydrates – 6.5 g.

Ingredients

medium potatoes – 5 pcs.;
Blackberry – 500 g;
carrots – 2 pcs.;
onion – 1 pc.;
parsley, root - to taste;
butter – 2 tbsp;
bay leaf – 2 pcs.;
sunflower oil – 2 tbsp;
pepper, peas – 3 pcs.

Step-by-step preparation

Chop the coral mushroom fairly coarsely and fry in butter. Then transfer to a saucepan, pour in two liters of water and cook for about 30 minutes.
Next, add the potato pieces, and when they have boiled a little, prepare the frying of onions, parsley and carrots in the standard way.
Once all the ingredients are in the pan, add salt and spices. Boil for another five minutes.

This is interesting: To ensure that the dish has a delicate taste, we recommend supplementing the list of ingredients with cream, as well as your favorite herbs.

Once you try a dish with these crunchy mushrooms, you will look for them every year to treat yourself again. Bon appetit!

Fruiting body

Bushy, highly branched, consisting of many “branches” covered with needle-shaped processes directed sideways and downwards. The fruiting body of the hedgehog is very similar to some types of sea corals, which gives the species its name. The color of the fruiting body is white, with age, as it ages, it acquires a dirty tint, then turns brown.

Spore powder- white. The spores are small, round, colorless.

Pulp When touched or damaged, coral barnacle turns red and hardens, some “spines” inside are filled with an oily, colorless liquid.

Collection and distribution

This fungus lives on dead wood of deciduous trees - alder, oak, birch, linden and aspen. Found in single specimens, the mushroom is very rare. In Russia, this species is listed in the Red Book. Most often found in South America and in Asian countries - China and Japan, in Russia, it can most often be found in the Far East.

The growing period of coral hedgehog is from July to September inclusive.

Alpine hedgehog.

Similar species

Due to the unusual shape of the fruiting body, the coral-shaped hedgehog can be mistaken exclusively for closely related species, also related to conditionally edible mushrooms. For example, for, differing in its distribution area and the fact that it settles almost exclusively on alder wood.

Use

The coral-shaped hedgehog is suitable for consumption after all types of culinary processing, but it is most popular when boiled (in soups) and fried. This mushroom does not require pre-treatment; you just have to remember that only young specimens with a white fruiting body are suitable for food. Before cooking, the hedgehog mushroom should be thoroughly washed - many different insects find refuge in its “branches”.

Mentions of the use of the coral-shaped hedgehog for food in Russia are preserved in written evidence. True, the first of them is rather a curiosity and dates back to the 17th century. Three caught robbers, not considering their guilt sufficient for the death penalty, were forced to eat hedgehog mushrooms for 2 weeks, according to the same sources, which were widely available in those days. The robbers collected it themselves and prepared a stew from it, calling this mushroom “the damned sponge.” As a result, this kind of diet did not harm them at all, but, trying to avoid a repetition of this, many robbers began to destroy the hedgehog wherever possible.
Some sources indicate that the coral-shaped hedgehog was listed in the Red Book due to confusion in taxonomy. Assessing the rarity of the species, scientists had in mind the alpine hedgehog, but the Latin name was introduced to refer to the coral-shaped hedgehog.
Coral hedgehog, like three other representatives of this genus, are cultivated in China and Japan, more as a medicinal product than as an edible crop. It has been established that Blackberry and preparations made from it can treat many diseases of the central nervous system, help with depression, and have a beneficial effect on digestive processes.

Despite the name, the coral mushroom has nothing in common with the sea; it chooses a cozy place on the stumps and trunks of fallen trees. The coral mushroom is simply a miracle, it has a beautiful exotic appearance, reminiscent of a branch of sea coral, it is a real pearl of nature - translucent snow-white lace. In addition, mushrooms are very healthy and nutritious: they contain about 70% dietary fiber, proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, as many as 18 valuable amino acids, they are a real storehouse of plant glycogens (special polysaccharides), necessary for immunodeficiency, serious stress, to slow down the aging process and memory improvements.

Blackberry coral-shaped, also hericium coral-shaped, blackberry is an edible mushroom of the genus Hericium

The fruiting body of the mushroom resembles a coral branch, multi-branched, snow-white. The flesh of the mushroom is white when young, then becomes slightly yellowish, without much odor. The fungus grows on the trunks and stumps of dead deciduous trees: aspen, elm, oak, birch and large branches of lying trees. When young, it is considered edible, but should not be collected, as it is listed in the Red Book of Russia.

Coral mushroom has many names: sea mushroom, snow, gelatinous, ice mushroom, royal, tremors, silver ear. The scientific name is tremella fuciformis. The coral mushroom, which has come into fashion recently, quickly acquired its own army of loyal fans. The flesh of the mushroom is fleshy, at the same time tender and crispy, elastic-gelatinous, springy, usually odorless (rarely has a pleasant faint odor).

In the countries of Southeast Asia, it has long been listed as a pharmaceutical mushroom containing biosubstances, a huge content of vitamin D. It has anti-inflammatory, antitumor, stimulating, tonic, anti-radiation, anti-allergic, anti-diabetic, and lowers cholesterol levels.

Before use, coral mushroom needs additional preparation. Required quantity coral mushrooms pour water at room temperature for 30 minutes to several hours (depending on the dish in which they will be used), the mushroom will absorb water and fully open. It should be taken into account that when the mushroom swells, it increases in size by 8-10 times. Then rinse the mushroom and divide it into small inflorescences with your hands, maintaining a beautiful wavy shape.

If there is, cut off the hard parts at the base. The simplest recipe is to marinate coral mushrooms. Wonderfully delicious, you just can’t stop eating! They are unique, unlike anything else, slightly crispy, very thin, with a sharp and sour taste. The spiciness inexplicably arises even without the addition of pepper - from a simple marinade of vinegar, sugar and salt.

The pickled translucent white mushroom can be eaten on its own as a savory snack.
But you can serve it with potatoes (boiled, stewed, fried, mashed), with sweetish beef stewed in tomato sauce and with other dishes that require a light hot and sour appetizer, for example, instead of pickled peppers. Marinated mushrooms go well with fish - to prepare a healthy, low-calorie dish you need to combine steamed fish, vegetables and marinated mushrooms - they need to be served on white or brown rice.

You can add pickled mushrooms to Korean carrot salad, and to salads where pickled cucumbers and capers are usually added. Because the delicate and at the same time elastic, crunchy structure of the coral mushroom is magnificent and unique. Coral mushrooms are great for scrambled eggs, a great combination of eggs and lightly fried mushrooms, the lack of slimy texture creates the perfect dish. Add your favorite ingredients such as onions, peppers, ham and cheese.

The following dish with coral mushroom is definitely for gourmets:
Place the coral mushrooms, soaked for 30-40 minutes and washed, in a pan with chicken broth and simmer briefly over low heat. After the mushrooms have absorbed most of the broth, lightly fry them with vegetable oil, garlic and white wine. Then evaporate excess moisture over medium heat with the lid open for 5-7 minutes. Usually these mushrooms are served as a separate appetizer, as well as with various vegetable side dishes, boiled potatoes with butter and herbs, mashed potatoes, and crispy fried potatoes. It's a matter of taste here.

Coral mushrooms with meat.

Ingredients:
100 grams of coral mushrooms, 3 green onions, 1 onion,
3 small cloves of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying, 1 - 2 teaspoons dark sesame oil, 200 grams of your favorite meat - beef, pork or chicken

Preparation:
1. Divide the coral mushroom into separate inflorescences; if the inflorescences are large, cut into strips and rinse well in cold water. Place in boiling water, bring to a boil and cook for two to three minutes. Remove from heat, drain in a colander and rinse with cold water. 2. Cut the meat into strips approximately the same size as the mushroom strips, lightly salt and sprinkle with a little pepper, let stand for ten minutes.
3. Place the mushrooms in a bowl, sprinkle a little salt and pepper, stir and let stand for ten minutes.
4. Cut green onions.
5. Cut onion thin rings.
6. Crush or mince or finely chop 3 cloves of fresh garlic.
7. Place mushrooms, onions, garlic in a bowl, mix well.
8. Heat olive oil (or other vegetable oil for frying) in a frying pan over medium heat for thirty seconds.
9. Add meat strips to the heated oil and fry until browned.
10. Add the mushroom mixture and fry for four to five minutes, remove from heat, drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with green onions.
Serve as a main meat course with any side dish or with Korean food as part of banchan (a general name for various appetizers and salads in Korea that are served as an accompaniment to the main dish and rice, in small shallow bowls).

Salad with coral mushrooms and pork tongue

Boil the tongue. Before it cools down, clean it from the film under running cool water.
Cut into strips.
We clean, cut (in half rings) and fry the onions in butter until transparent along with the carrots, cut into strips.
Cut the bell pepper into thin strips.
In a bowl, mix boiled tongue, carrots, fried onions, coral mushrooms (finely chopped)
and bell pepper.
Season with vegetable oil, salt and pepper to taste.
That’s it, the “Coral Delight” salad is ready!