Mushroom hedgehog

The hedgehog fungus or Hydnum repandum belongs to the genus Gidnum and the hedgehog family. In addition to the official name adopted in the scientific community, there are other names for the mushroom hedgehog. For example, the fungus is called yellow hedgehog or coral-shaped hedgehog, as well as dentinum or hydnum notched. The fruit body of the hedgehog mushroom, as a rule, does not exceed 10 cm in height. The hedgehog hat in diameter does not exceed 15 cm and is distinguished by a yellow or orange color, as well as an uneven and even bumpy surface.

The pulp of the hedgehog fungus is distinguished by its white color, fleshiness, as well as a weakly expressed but catches fruity smell. Inexperienced mushroom pickers should study the appearance of the hedgehog mushroom so as not to confuse with poisonous and inedible types of mushrooms. The mushroom hedgehog grows in the forests of the European part of the Russian Federation, as well as in the Siberian region and in the Far East. In addition, the mushroom hedgehog is found in North America and Eurasia. Most often, the hedgehog mushroom grows in coniferous or deciduous forests.

Seasonal for the mushroom hedgehog is a period of time that begins in mid-autumn and continues until the onset of the first frosts. Currently, botanists have discovered, studied and described several varieties of the hedgehog fungus, which differ from each other not only in appearance or habitat. Both edible and dangerous and poisonous to the human body mushroom hedgehog is found in nature. The following types of edible hedgehog fungus most commonly encountered and used in cooking can be distinguished:



the hedgehog mushroom Hydnum albidum differs from other varieties in the white color of the mushroom hat;

the hedgehog fungus Hydnum umbilicatum grows mainly in the North American region, therefore it is isolated as a separate subspecies;

mushroom hedgehog red-yellow or Hydnum umbilicatum is distinguished by the characteristic orange or red-yellow color of the mushroom hat.



Mushroom hedgehog can become a real delicacy and culinary masterpiece in the hands of experienced craftsmen. For example, in the country of France, famous for its culinary traditions and a large concentration of foodies, the hedgehog mushroom is considered one of the best treats. Moreover, hedgehog mushrooms are served as the main dish, snacks or side dish. Sauces are made from hedgehogs, added to soups or salads.

It is noteworthy that young hedgehog mushrooms are often confused with sawdust. It is believed that young mushrooms have the best taste and aroma, however, more mature hedgehogs are able to decorate your dish with dignity, the main thing to remember is one culinary trick. Before preparing the dish, boil the hedgehog mushrooms in ordinary salted water. We assure you that you will immediately notice the difference and can appreciate the distinctive taste and consumer characteristics of the hedgehog mushroom.