Unlocking "forest chicken": A guide to cooking wild treasures

The world of mushrooms holds flavours that many people have never imagined. When strolling in the forest, it's worth watching for chanterelles, boletes, porcini and other hidden gems. One such treasure grows on tree trunks, and you'll love it as soon as you cook it.

A Facebook post has circulated featuring an unusual mushroom known as "chicken of the woods." This yellow-orange mushroom found growing on deciduous trees, can be prepared to taste just like chicken. It might sound unbelievable, but once you try it, you'll be convinced. The abundant umami, or "meaty" flavour, in mushrooms truly shines here. Combined with the right texture, the sulphur shelf transforms into what some call "forest chicken."

The sulphur shelf primarily grows on trees like oaks or chestnuts, especially from May to July. However, younger specimens can also appear in the fall, so it's worth staying alert during mushroom hunts. This mushroom is notable for its size, ranging from 10 to 50 centimetres in diameter, and its striking yellow-orange colour. Collecting only the young specimens is crucial, as the older ones turn tough and inedible. Be sure to check the softness of the underside of the cap before picking it.

Young fruiting bodies boast an intense yellow hue, which fades with age. Older specimens often appear more orange or even white. Besides examining the underside of the cap, it's important to observe the entire structure of the mushroom. Young sulfur shelves are soft and moist, while older ones become hard and fibrous. Always assess the mushroom carefully and consult an expert if in doubt.

Do not collect sulfur shelf from yew trees, as the mushroom could absorb toxic substances from the tree.

Sulphur shelf is an intriguing mushroom that can serve as a fascinating alternative to meat. Suppose you enjoy culinary experiments and want to try something novel. In that case, searching for it in the forest—provided you know how to identify it—and cooking up a delightful dish is worthwhile.

Before using the sulfur shelf, it should be boiled for 10 to 20 minutes. Although it emits an unpleasant odour during cooking, this mushroom is perfect for tarts, pâtés, or cutlets. You can also bread and fry it just like traditional cutlets. It's an excellent chicken substitute that will add variety to your diet.