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Fragrant hygrophorus (Hygrophorus agathosmus) is one of the representatives of the numerous kingdom of fungi. Despite its conditional edibility, it is not in great demand among mushroom pickers. Some do not like the taste of fruiting bodies, others simply do not know that they can be collected.
Hygrophorus fragrant, fragrant, Agaricus agathosmus, Agaricus cerasinus are the names of the same mushroom.
Not every person dares to put unfamiliar gifts of the forest into the basket, despite their attractive appearance.
What does fragrant hygrophorus look like
Fragrant hygrophorus can be distinguished from other fungi by external signs.
The fruit body has a medium-sized hat, 3 to 7 cm in diameter. When the mushroom first appears above the ground, this part is convex, but gradually straightens, only a tubercle remains in the center. The skin on the hat is without roughness, but slippery, as it has mucus on it. It is grayish, olive-gray or yellowish in color, slightly lighter towards the edges.
Fragrant hygrophorus belongs to agaric mushrooms. His plates are white, thick, rarely located. In young fruiting bodies, they are adherent. Gradually diverge, at the same time change color. In adult hygrophores, the plates are dirty gray.
Mushrooms are distinguished by high (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 gray or gray-brown. The entire surface is covered with small, flake-like scales.
The pulp of fragrant hygrophore is white, soft in dry weather. When it rains, it becomes loose, watery. The taste of mushrooms is sweetish with the aroma of almonds.
When it rains, it is not difficult to find a hygrophorus, since the smell spreads tens of meters from the mushroom place
Where fragrant hygrophorus grows
Most often, the species can be found in mountainous areas where there are damp mossy coniferous forests. Sometimes grows in mixed forest belts, under oaks and beeches.
It is not afraid of frost, so the collection continues even in September-October and early November. A representative grows in groups, less often singly.
Is it possible to eat fragrant hygrophorus
This species is conditionally edible. But it is not used as a basis for a dish, but only added to other fruiting bodies. It’s all about the intense flavor.
Fragrant hygrophorus is a useful gift of 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 fruiting bodies are equated with meat.
False doubles
Almost all mushrooms have twins, and the fragrant hygrophore also has them. There are only two of them, but both can be eaten. So if you confuse these mushrooms, there will be nothing to worry about:
- Hygrophorus secretanii. Differs in bright red color of the cap, plates, legs;
The mushroom smells the same as fragrant, almonds
- Hygrophorus hyacinthus. The edible mushroom got its name from the scent of the flowers.
The leg does not have scales, it is smooth
Rules for collection and use
When going to 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 must be sorted out, then cleaned of earth, needles or foliage. Pour cold water and rinse each fruiting body. Then clean the hat from the mucous skin and also the legs.
For culinary delights, you can use all parts of the fruit. The taste of boiled, fried, salted or pickled mushrooms is pleasant, delicate. The pulp remains dense, almost does not boil down.
Fried hats and legs in sour cream with onions or green onions are very tasty. Julienne, mushroom soup, sauce come out great.
The Chinese use fragrant hygrophorus to make 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
Hygrophor fragrant is safe and conditionally edible, although not everyone can use it. The fact is that the 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, lactating women in case of individual intolerance and allergies are also not recommended to use such a crop.
