Mild milkcap (Lactarius subdulcis) is a common woodland mushroom that forms a symbiotic relationship with beech and certain other types of trees. The common name and the Latin name Lactarius, which also means milky, refers to the white milk-like sap that is produced when the mushroom's gills are damaged.
Cap Diameter:
3 - 7 cm
Odor:
Faintly sweet, not distinctive.
In This Article
Attributes
Similar Species
Tips for Finding
Clean and Preserve
Common Questions
General Info About Mild milkcap
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Attributes of Mild milkcap
Cap Diameter
3 - 7 cm
Height
4 - 10 cm
Cap
Cap 3 - 7 cm across; convex; reddish-brown to buff; fairly rigid to flexible, smooth to slightly wrinkled; margin incurved
Cap Shape
Convex, Depressed, Central Bump
Cap Surfaces
Smooth
Gills
Adnate to shortly decurrent; crowded; white or pink
Gill Attachment
Attached
Stem
Stem 3 - 7 cm long, 6 - 13 mm thick; cylindrical, club-shaped; cap-colored, paler at the top; sometimes furrowed lengthwise
Stem Shapes
Cylindrical
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Flesh
Thin; pale
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
Cream with a slight salmon-pink tinge
Odor
Faintly sweet, not distinctive.
Body Color
Brown
Yellow
Red
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
In broad-leaved woodland, especially on the floor at the base of beech trees
Uses of Mild milkcap
Mild milkcap is a mushroom valued for its edibility, especially within local communities familiar with its identification. While not widely popular or commercially collected, it's seasonally gathered by enthusiasts and used in various culinary dishes. It's advisable to consume mild milkcap after proper cooking to avoid potential discomfort, as with many wild mushrooms. The collection of mild milkcap typically aligns with the foraging season, contributing to its selective rather than mainstream use.
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Tips for Finding Mild milkcap
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When is the Best Time to Find Mild milkcap
Search for mild milkcap in late summer to fall when the weather starts to cool down and after periods of rainfall. Damp, cooler climates are typically the most fruitful times.
What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Mild milkcap
Moist, well-drained, and rich in organic matter.
What are Some Tips for Finding Mild milkcap
Seek areas with well-established Beech trees and other hardwoods as potential hotspots for mild milkcap.
Look for mild milkcap in areas with thick layers of decomposed leaf litter under Beech trees.
Search after periods of rain when the soil is moist, which may encourage mild milkcap fruiting.
Inspect the ground for the distinctive caps of mild milkcap, being careful not to disturb the surrounding leaf litter excessively.
How to Clean and Preserve Mild milkcap
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How to Clean Mild milkcap
To clean mild milkcap, gently brush off any debris using a soft brush. If necessary, slightly dampen a cloth and carefully wipe the surface. Avoid soaking as mild milkcap may absorb water, which can affect its texture and structure. It's crucial to handle mild milkcap delicately to preserve its physical integrity.
Tips on Dry Preservation of Mild milkcap
Drying Methods
Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying
Drying Duration
6 - 12 months
Store in a cool, dark, dry place with low humidity and good ventilation to prevent spoilage.
Dehydrator drying: Best for even moisture removal without overexposure to heat.
Oven drying: Reliable for controlled low temperatures, suitable for thorough drying.
Air drying: Utilizes natural airflow and is lower cost, but dependent on climate conditions.
Tips on Freezing Preservation of Mild milkcap
Freezing Methods
Blanching Before Freezing
Freezing Duration
10 - 12 months
Blanching before freezing: Preserving color and texture by briefly scalding in hot water, then cooling rapidly.
Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Mild milkcap
Refrigerating Methods
Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining
Temperature
1 - 4 ℃
Refrigerating Humidity
85 - 90 %
Refrigerating Duration
7 - 10 days
Paper Bag Storage: Store in paper bags to allow breathability, reducing moisture build-up and spoilage.
Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Use perforated plastic bags to maintain humidity while allowing air circulation.
Container with Absorbent Lining: Place in shallow containers between layers of paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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