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Fragrant hygrophorus (Hygrophorus agathosmus) is one of the representatives of the numerous kingdom of mushrooms. Despite its conditional edibility, it is not in particular demand among mushroom pickers. Some people don’t like the taste of the fruiting bodies, others simply don’t know that they can be collected.
Hygrophorus fragrant, aromatic, Agaricus agathosmus, Agaricus cerasinus - names of the same mushroom.
Not every person will risk putting unfamiliar gifts of the forest into the basket, despite their attractive appearance
What does fragrant hygrophor look like?
Fragrant hygrophorus can be distinguished from other mushrooms by external characteristics.
The fruiting body has a medium-sized cap, with a diameter of 3 to 7 cm. When the mushroom first appears above the surface of the earth, this part is convex, but gradually straightens, only a tubercle remains in the center. The skin on the cap is without roughness, but slippery, as it contains mucus. In color it is grayish, olive-gray or yellowish, slightly lighter towards the edges.
Fragrant hygrophorus belongs to the lamellar mushrooms. Its plates are white, thick, and sparsely spaced. In young fruiting bodies they are adherent. Gradually they diverge and at the same time change color. In adult hygrophores, the plates are dirty gray.
Mushrooms are distinguished by tall (about 7 cm) and thin (no more than 1 cm in diameter) legs. They have the shape of a cylinder, which is thicker at the base. Themselves are gray or gray-brown in color. The entire surface is covered with small, flake-like scales.
The flesh of the fragrant hygrophorus is white, soft in dry weather. When it rains, it becomes loose and watery. The taste of mushrooms is sweetish with the aroma of almonds.
When it rains, it is not difficult to find hygrophores, since the smell spreads tens of meters from the mushroom place
Where does fragrant hygrophorus grow?
Most often, the species can be found in mountainous areas where there are damp, mossy coniferous forests. Sometimes it grows in mixed forest belts, under oaks and beeches.
It is not afraid of frost, so harvesting continues even in September-October and early November. The representative grows in groups, less often alone.
Is it possible to eat fragrant hygrophor
This species is classified as conditionally edible.But it is not used as a base for a dish, but is only added to other fruiting bodies. It's all about the distinct aroma.
Fragrant hygrophorus is a useful gift from the forest, it contains a large amount of:
- vitamins B, A, C, D, PP;
- various amino acids;
- phosphorus and calcium, potassium and sulfur, sodium and manganese, zinc and iodine;
- protein - its content is such that the fruiting bodies are equated to meat.
False doubles
Almost all mushrooms have doubles, and fragrant hygrophorus also has them. There are only two of them, but both can be eaten. So if you confuse these mushrooms, nothing bad will happen:
- Hygrophorus secretanii. It is distinguished by the bright red color of its cap, plates, and legs;
The mushroom smells the same as the fragrant one, like almonds
- Hygrophorus hyacinth. The edible mushroom got its name from the aroma of flowers.
The leg has no scales, it is smooth
Rules for collection and use
When going into the forest for a quiet hunt, you need to stock up on a basket and a knife with a sharp blade. Fragrant hygrophores are cut off at the very base so as not to destroy the mycelium.
Mushrooms brought home need to be sorted out, then cleaned of soil, pine needles or foliage. Pour cold water and rinse each fruiting body. Then clean the cap from the mucous skin and also the legs.
All parts of the fruit can be used for culinary delights. The taste of boiled, fried, salted or pickled mushrooms is pleasant and delicate. The pulp remains dense and hardly boils down.
Fried caps and legs in sour cream with onions or green onions are very tasty. Julienne, mushroom soup and sauce are excellent.
The Chinese use fragrant hygrophor to prepare a delicious tincture with milk. In their opinion, drinking a healthy drink strengthens the immune system, removes toxins and other harmful substances from the body.
Conclusion
Fragrant hygrophor is safe and conditionally edible, although not everyone can consume it. The fact is that fruiting bodies contain a lot of fiber; you need to eat the product in moderation, otherwise heartburn will appear. Children under 14 years of age, as well as pregnant and lactating women in case of individual intolerance and allergies are also not recommended to use this crop.
