Sinyavka mushroom: description, photo
The bruise mushroom has the scientific name azure russula. This species is widespread in European coniferous forests, as well as in Asia. Most often it grows in large colonies on soil and litter of mixed spruce and fir forests.
The mushroom got its name because of its blue-purple cap. At the same time, the shade is lighter at the edges, in the center it is dark.
The bruise mushroom is often found in the harvested crop.
Features:
- lilac or blue fleshy cap with a diameter of 4 to 10 cm, in young mushrooms it is convex with a small tubercle, in old mushrooms it is depressed;
- easily removable skin with a bluish bloom;
- white plates adhered to the leg;
- snow-white leg 3-5 cm high, gradually tapering upward, solid in young mushrooms, hollow in old ones;
- firm white pulp with a sweetish taste and without a pronounced odor;
- ovoid spores.
It is advisable to look at the photo of what the blue mushroom looks like, so as not to confuse it with other mushrooms.
It is better not to cut the mushrooms, but to twist them carefully. The cut off part of the leg can rot and destroy the mycelium. Found russula should be immediately cleaned of dirt and debris.
It is most convenient to pick mushrooms in wicker willow baskets or buckets, so they will not wrinkle or crumble. Since this product is not stored for a long time, the harvested crop must be sorted out and processed immediately upon returning home.
The use of mushroom bruises
This mushroom is considered conditionally edible and has a pleasant, non-bitter taste. Harvested in August and September. Azure russules are widely used in cooking. They can be stewed, fried, salted or boiled, they will be delicious in any form. Salty bruises are considered a delicacy. But for salting and drying, you need to choose only the strongest and most resilient mushrooms.
These mushrooms are often used to curd milk. The result is a natural fermented milk drink that is useful for people suffering from heart disease.
Russula of this type in its composition have a lot of vitamins and nutrients, therefore, dishes with them are recommended for people with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Also, bruising reduces the risk of blood clots.
There are very few calories in these russula, so they can be safely eaten by people who do not want to gain excess weight. Despite the low calorie content, mushrooms are very nutritious and quickly satisfy hunger.
From azure russules, you can prepare many tasty and healthy dishes and preparations for the winter.