The Hen Of The Woods (Grifola frondosa) is one of the easy to ID mushrooms out there in the woods. Some people misidentify it for the umbrella polypore (Polyporus umbellatus) which is another edible functional food. However, both of them are edible and medicinal. One specimen can weight quite a lot and huge exemplars have been found especially in North America.
The “Hen of the Woods” mushroom (Grifola frondosa) is typically harvested in the late summer to early fall months, with peak season varying depending on location and environmental factors. It is most commonly found growing at the base of oak trees, but can also be found on the roots of other trees. Find out more about this wonderful mushroom in The Wild Mushroom Course.
Nutritional value
Hen of the Woods mushrooms are considered a nutritious food and are rich in several essential nutrients. Here are some of their key nutritional highlights:
Protein: Hen of the Woods mushrooms are a good source of protein, with about 3-4 grams of protein per 100 grams of mushrooms.
Fiber: They are also a good source of dietary fiber, with about 2 grams per 100 grams of mushrooms.
Vitamins and minerals: Hen of the Woods mushrooms are a good source of vitamins B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), and D. They also contain potassium, phosphorus, and iron.
Antioxidants: These mushrooms contain antioxidants that can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Low calorie: Hen of the Woods mushrooms are low in calories, with only about 30-40 calories per 100 grams of mushrooms.
It’s worth noting that the exact nutritional content of Hen of the Woods mushrooms can vary depending on growing conditions and preparation methods.
Hen of the woods lookalikes
There’s very few lookalikes for this mushroom.
Edible lookalikes:
- The Umbrella Polypore (Polyporus umbellatus)
Non-edible lookalikes:
- Meripilus giganteus
Preserving The Hen Of The Woods Mushroom
There are several methods for preserving Hen of the Woods mushrooms:
Drying: Drying is a simple and effective way to preserve Hen of the Woods mushrooms. Simply place them in a dehydrator or in a warm, well-ventilated area for several days until they are thoroughly dry. Dried mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container for several months.
Freezing: Another option is to freeze the mushrooms. To do this, simply clean the mushrooms, chop them into desired pieces, and place them in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Canning: You can also preserve Hen of the Woods mushrooms by canning them. Clean and chop the mushrooms, then pack them into jars with a brine solution. Canning requires specialized equipment, so it’s important to follow a reliable recipe and to be familiar with the proper canning techniques.
Pickling: Pickling is another option for preserving Hen of the Woods mushrooms. Simply clean and chop the mushrooms, then pickle them in a vinegar and salt solution for a few days. Pickled mushrooms can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.
It’s important to note that the flavor and texture of preserved mushrooms can change, so it’s best to experiment with small batches to see which preservation method works best for your tastes.
Cooking Hen of The Woods
Hen of the Woods mushrooms, also known as Grifola frondosa, have a meaty texture and nutty flavor, and they can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some tips for cooking with Hen of the Woods mushrooms:
Before cooking, it’s important to clean the mushrooms thoroughly. Simply brush off any dirt or debris and cut away any tough or damaged parts.
Sauteing: One of the simplest ways to cook Hen of the Woods mushrooms is to saute them. Simply heat some oil in a pan, add the mushrooms, and cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly browned.
Soup and stew: Hen of the Woods mushrooms can also be added to soups and stews to add depth of flavor. Simply chop the mushrooms and add them to the pot along with the other ingredients.
These are just a few ideas for cooking with Hen of the Woods mushrooms. They can also be used in pasta dishes, omelets, pizzas, and more. Experiment with different recipes to find the ones that you like best!