HEN OF THE WOODS

Gilfola frondosa

   This mushroom is also known as maitake and is quite bountiful here during Minnesota summers. The flavor is fairly mild - mushroomy and earthy. It can be harvested from hardwoods, and will most likely be found on dying oak trees. The texture is quite spongy soft and is tasty just fried in butter.

Simple Seasoned Hen of the Woods
Serves 2-4
1 pound Hen of the Woods (cleaned)
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. sesame seeds
1 tsp. chopped green onion
1/2 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. sesame oil

Wash mushrooms well. Mix all ingredients and coat mushrooms. Cook in a skillet until tender. Serve as a side or on top of chicken.