What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have never been discovered.-Ralph Waldo Emerson
Berkeley's polypore - Bondarzewia berkeleyi - stump blossoms
Season: End of June onwards.
Where does it Grow and How Do I Identify Berkleys Polypore?
Berkleys starts out as tiny edible nubs and grows into Rosettes or clusters of fleshy, cream-colored caps which in my experience turn hard, stale and yellow as it gets old.
Pores underneath: whitish, descending the stalk.
Each cap convex or flat, becoming depressed in the center; cream-colored; texture dry, hairy or smooth, can be rough or pitted; flesh white, thick, firm, becoming tough;
Odor mild and earthy, becoming strong.
Stalk rooting; yellowish.
Spore print white.
Is It Edible & Are There Any Poisonous Look Alikes?
Although not as tasty as its other edible polypore look alikes such as hen of the woods (Grifola frondosa) has many smaller, grayish brownish caps. Black Staining Polypore ( Meripilus sumstinei) and the vibrant goldens of Chicken of the woods< Berkleys Polypore is indeed edible, I liken it to tofu because it absorbs other flavors and seasonings easily. Unlike Black Staining polypore, I do not make stocks out of the solid growth base as it is a lot more bitter.
I want to add that as much as there are no poisonous look alike mushrooms to Berkleys, ( now look at the photo and tell me what you see? ) there has definately been a time I was so syked I'd found it that I completely did not see the poison ivy next to it and knelt, frolicked and sat in it as I harvested my find.. that was not a good result for a week or so.. #justsaying Word from the wise look around before you start!
How to harvest, clean and store your treasure!
As with all mushroom foraging, prepration is key. If I am going out to forage and its September - October, the chances are I will find polypores. These require space as you walk or they will quickly break and you will loose the beautiful visual of an intact piece of giant edible mushroom.
When I find polypores I cut the leaves away and store in anything from a cardboard six pack beer holder to a basket to a box with burdock leaves or cotton covering each layer.
The more time you take removing the dirt and debris as you forage ( leaving snacks for squirrels as I see it) the less work you will have at home.
I cover it and store in the fridge, Ive frozen it raw and its been great too. Berkleys gets bitter with age so only forage the freshest leaves and nubs and use within 3 or 4 days.
Cooking with Berkleys Polypore
Saute
One of the most popular ways to cook with is by sautéing it. Heat some butter or oil in a pan over medium heat, and add in the sliced mushroom. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the polypore is tender and lightly browned. This is a great side dish for any meal and goes particularly well with steak or roasted chicken.
Stir Fry
Another delicious way to eat Berkeley's polypore is in a stir-fry. Cut up some vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and carrots, and sauté them in a pan with some garlic and ginger. Once the vegetables are cooked, add in the sliced polypore and cook for a few more minutes. Serve with rice or noodles for a hearty and healthy meal.
Great as a meat alternative
Berkleys can also be used in place of meat in vegetarian dishes. Think of it like tofu :) it works well as a meatless burger patty with a mix of polypore mushrooms, black beans, and quinoa. Season with garlic and herbs and pan-fry until crispy on the outside. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional burgers.