Hen of the Woods

This is 11 pounds of Hen of the Woods mushroom. Grifola frondosa, which also goes by the common name Sheep's Head, is a fantastically good eating mushroom. Add to that the fact that it would be almost impossible to mistake anything else for it and you will understand why this is one of my favorites. This is the third year we have picked from the same area so if you find one remember to look again next year. Specimens over 100 pounds have been found but this 11 pound cluster is fairly normal. This one is safely dried and stored away, ready to add it's distinctive touch to many meals to come. I like to powder some of the dried mushroom and use it as you would use a spice in almost any meat dish. A Cream of Mushroom soup made with these has the unfortunate side effect of making any other mushroom soup you try bland and unappetizing. Look for Hen of the Woods near the base of  big,old hardwoods, especially oaks.