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Pacific golden chanterelle

Cantharellus formosus

A species of Chanterelles, Also known as Golden chanterelle

The pacific golden chanterelle (Cantharellus formosus) is an incredibly dense and meaty mushroom with a cap that resembles a rosette pattern instead of stereotypical dome-shaped caps. The color is an almost iridescent yellow color but may range from warm gold to salmon pink, depending on sun exposure. Highly flavorful, the pacific golden chanterelle has been named the state mushroom of Oregon because of its value and flavor.

Cap Diameter:

3 - 10 cm

Odor:

Faintly sweet fragrance.

General Info About Pacific golden chanterelle

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Attributes of Pacific golden chanterelle

Cap Diameter

3 - 10 cm

Height

5 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 3 - 10 cm across; convex to flat; orange-yellow; bruising and discoloring yellowish

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat, Depressed

Cap Surfaces

Fibrillose-scaly

Gills

Orangey yellow to salmon; display yellow when bruised

Stem

Stem 4 - 6 cm long, 1.5 cm thick; cylindrical, tapering from top to bottom; yellow to brownish; smooth; yellow to ochraceous when bruised

Stem Shapes

Tapering

Stem Surfaces

Smooth

Flesh

Whitish to very pale yellowish

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

Whitish to pale yellowish

Odor

Faintly sweet fragrance.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Gray

Orange

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Solitary, Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil, Mosses, Leaf or Needle Litter

You can find Pacific golden chanterelle by these plants:

Pines, Oaks, Firs, Populus, Spruces

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Least Concern

Endangered Species

How to Identify Pacific golden chanterelle

Fruiting Body Cap Undersurface

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Habitat of Pacific golden chanterelle

Pacific golden chanterelle is commonly found in moss and duff under coniferous forests, thriving alongside trees such as Douglas fir and western hemlock.

Uses of Pacific golden chanterelle

Pacific golden chanterelle is a highly sought-after edible mushroom, prized for its delicious flavor and firm texture. It is popular in culinary circles, especially during its peak season. Chefs and foragers alike value pacific golden chanterelle for its versatility in dishes. While it's safe to eat, it's crucial to properly identify pacific golden chanterelle due to the existence of look-alikes that may be toxic. Always consult an expert before consumption.

Scientific Classification of Pacific golden chanterelle

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Cantharellales

Family

Chanterelle

Genus

Chanterelles

Toxicity and Edibility of Pacific golden chanterelle

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Edibility of Pacific golden chanterelle

Delicious and highly sought-after, the pacific golden chanterelle is considered one of the most choice edible mushrooms in the Pacific Northwest. Like many other chanterelles, the pacific golden chanterelle boasts a fruity, often apricot-like odor and a mild but excellent flavor. The mushrooms are usually brushed, but not washed, before being cooked. They can be stir-fried, sauteed, or incorporated into soups or pastas.

Similar Species to Pacific golden chanterelle

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Tips for Finding Pacific golden chanterelle

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When is the Best Time to Find Pacific golden chanterelle

Search for pacific golden chanterelle during summer to early fall. These mushrooms flourish after periods of rain, when temperatures are mild to warm, and the forest floor is damp but not waterlogged.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Pacific golden chanterelle

Rich, moist, well-drained duff and mossy areas.

What are Some Tips for Finding Pacific golden chanterelle

Seek out mature coniferous forests where conifers like Douglas fir and western hemlock dominate.
Inspect the forest floor, particularly looking through the moss and decomposing plant matter (duff).
Be mindful of small clusters or solitary specimens that may blend into the surrounding duff.
Use gentle hands to move aside moss and foliage to uncover hidden mushrooms without damaging them.
Look for the distinct funnel shape and vibrant coloration typical of pacific golden chanterelle.

How to Clean and Preserve Pacific golden chanterelle

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How to Clean Pacific golden chanterelle

To clean pacific golden chanterelle, gently brush off any debris using a soft brush. If necessary, lightly dampen a cloth and wipe the surface.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Pacific golden chanterelle

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

12 - 18 months

Store in a dark, cool, and dry place with airtight containers to preserve quality and prevent rehydration.

Dehydrator drying: Best method due to controlled temperature, allowing efficient moisture removal without over-drying.

Oven drying: Use at lowest setting with door slightly open for airflow; monitor closely to prevent overheating.

Air drying: Suitable in arid, warm climates; requires good ventilation and protection from direct sunlight.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Pacific golden chanterelle

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Briefly submerge in boiling water to preserve texture and flavor.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Pacific golden chanterelle

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

1 - 3 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

5 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow breathability, reducing moisture accumulation and spoilage.

Cloth Wrapping: Enclose in a damp cloth to maintain humidity without excess water, which prevents drying out and wilting.

Container with Absorbent Lining: Place in a container lined with paper towel to absorb excess moisture, ensuring a dry environment.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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What color is pacific golden chanterelle?

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Pacific golden chanterelle

False chanterelle

Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca