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How to find Matsutake (Pine) Mushrooms in BC forests…

a group of people in a forest

Tips from Chef Robin on how to find one of the most expensive culinary mushrooms in the world…

You have to be careful, because there are poisonous look alikes out there that can cause some serious liver damage (Amanita smithiana). You may be wondering why anyone would feel comfortable picking and eating matsutakes (Tricholoma murrillanum)? The main key to this mushroom is its really strong smell, tapering stem and thick, cottony ring (white above the ring and brown scales below).  Like earthy-cinnamon, no chef could mistake the smell of a matsutake for a deadly amanita.  It’s important to proceed with caution though, if there’s any question in your mind about the ID,  throw it out!

Check out our FREE Foraging for Beginners 3-Part Video Series here.

Pine-Lookalikes