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Fat jack

Suillus caerulescens

A species of Slippery jacks, Also known as Blue-staining suillus

The fat jack is a member of the bolete family that can be found growing underneath Douglas Firs along the western coast of North America. The species' light yellow pore surface turns to brown when damaged or rubbed. Fat jacks also tend to have mild and pleasant, sometimes lemony, odors.

Cap Diameter:

5 - 15 cm

Odor:

Fragrant, not particularly distinctive.

General Info About Fat jack

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Attributes of Fat jack

Cap Diameter

5 - 15 cm

Height

5 - 10 cm

Cap

Cap 6 - 14 cm; convex or flat; yellowish brown to tawny; smooth

Cap Shape

Convex, Flat

Cap Surfaces

Slimy or slightly sticky, Fibrillose-scaly

Stem

Stem 3 - 8 cm long, 2 - 3 cm thick; equal; yellowish, brownish; smooth

Stem Shapes

Cylindrical

Stem Surfaces

Fibrillose

Flesh

Thick; pale yellow; staining blue in the stem base when exposed

Ring

Dry; whitish

Ring

With Ring

Spore Print Color

Cinnamon brown

Odor

Fragrant, not particularly distinctive.

Body Color

Brown

Yellow

Bronze

Flesh Bruises

Discolor to blue

Growth Form

Solitary, Gregarious, Scattered

Nutrient Gathering

Mycorrhizal

Substrate

On soil

You can find Fat jack by these plants:

Common douglas-fir

Occurence Habitats

Coniferous Woodland

Species Status

Common in western North America

Endangered Species

How to Identify Fat jack

Fruiting Body Cap Flesh

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Habitat of Fat jack

The fat jack is often found in coniferous forests, particularly under the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menzesii). It is always found near the roots of trees, where it exists in a symbiotic relationship in which the two species feed each other essential nutrients.

Hunting Values of Fat jack

Clean the surface slime and thoroughly cook before eating. However, some people still report allergies or gastrointestinal discomfort after eating.

Uses of Fat jack

Fat jack is an edible mushroom species that requires careful handling due to potential risks if not prepared correctly. Its practical uses are primarily culinary, valued for its flavor when properly cooked. Fat jack has a specific seasonal availability which influences its collection value. While it holds some popularity among foragers, caution is advised due to its 'Edible with Precautions' status, reminding consumers to be well-informed about preparation methods to avoid adverse effects.

Scientific Classification of Fat jack

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Boletes and allies

Family

Suillaceae

Genus

Slippery jacks

Toxicity and Edibility of Fat jack

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Is Fat jack Toxic?

Fat jack can cause allergic reactions that vary widely, from mild to severe, such as skin rashes, itching, swelling in the mouth, stomach upset, respiratory issues, and in extreme cases, anaphylaxis.

Type of poisoning

Allergic

Toxic Severity

Low toxicity

Incubation Period

0.5-24 hours

Poisoning Symptoms

Individual responses to a mushroom allergy can differ widely, with reactions spanning from slight to intense, including skin rashes, itching, swelling in the mouth, stomach upset, and respiratory issues. In severe cases, it can lead to anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.

Edibility of Fat jack

The fat jack is reportedly an edible mushroom; it gets its nickname, the "chicken fat mushroom," from the fact that some people think it tastes like chicken fat (though others say it is more tasty). The caps and the pore layer of the mushroom should be removed before cooking or eating.

Similar Species to Fat jack

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Tips for Finding Fat jack

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When is the Best Time to Find Fat jack

Search for fat jack during late summer to fall, after periods of rain. Ideal temperatures are between 50-70°F (10-21°C). Foggy mornings can also be a good time to find fat jack.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for Fat jack

Well-draining, moist, rich in organic matter.

What are Some Tips for Finding Fat jack

Look for areas with a prevalence of Douglas fir since fat jack is often found in their vicinity.
Search in coniferous forests where the soil is well-drained yet moist and rich in organic content.
Inspect the ground around and under Douglas fir trees, looking for solitary or groupings of these mushrooms.
Gently brush away fallen needles and debris beneath Douglas firs to uncover fat jack.
Be observant of the natural environment, taking care not to disrupt the habitat while searching.

How to Clean and Preserve Fat jack

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How to Clean Fat jack

To clean fat jack, gently remove debris by brushing. If larvae are present, soak in salt water (1 tablespoon salt per cup of water), then rinse well. This method is appropriate for maintaining the physical integrity of fat jack.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Fat jack

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place with low humidity.

Dehydrator drying: Controlled environment ensures even and thorough drying, ideal for high moisture content.

Oven drying: Consistent low heat removes moisture without overcooking, suitable for quick drying.

Air drying: Natural, cost-effective method best in warm, dry climates with good air circulation.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Fat jack

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

3 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Blanch to inactivate enzymes, quick chill, then freeze, helps retain texture.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Fat jack

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping

Temperature

0 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

90 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Allows the mushroom to 'breathe', reducing moisture buildup and prolonging freshness.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Small holes provide air circulation, balancing humidity and minimizing condensation.

Cloth Wrapping: Cloth absorbs excess moisture while maintaining a stable environment for the mushrooms.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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Can I eat fat jack?

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More Mushrooms That Are Similar to Fat jack

Larch bolete

Suillus grevillei