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Golden ear

Tremella aurantia

A species of Tremella

The golden ear can be encountered in an unusual time of the year – winter. It is considered a parasitic fungus, as it tends to grow on the fruiting body of other fungi, particularly the Hairy Curtain Crust (Stereum hirsutum). When wet, the golden ear has a gelatinous structure, but in dry weather, it becomes tougher and crust-like.

Odor:

Faint, non-distinctive mushroom smell.

General Info About Golden ear

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Attributes of Golden ear

Height

1 - 3 cm

Flesh

Gelatinous; yellow

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Faint, non-distinctive mushroom smell.

Body Color

Yellow

Gold

Flesh Bruises

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

Growth Form

Gregarious

Nutrient Gathering

Parasitic

Substrate

Dead Woods, On mushrooms

Occurence Habitats

Deciduous Woodland

Species Status

Common

Endangered Species

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Habitat of Golden ear

Golden ear prefers coastal forests, especially on hardwood debris, such as oak and beech. Found on downed wood or parasitizing on Stereum hirsutum.

Uses of Golden ear

Golden ear is an edible mushroom appreciated for its unique texture and potential health benefits. While not as popular as some gourmet mushrooms, it's valued in certain culinary circles, especially in Asian cuisine. It may also hold medicinal properties, though these claims require scientific validation. Golden ear is seasonally available and should be consumed with care after proper identification to avoid confusion with similar-looking toxic species.

Scientific Classification of Golden ear

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Toxicity and Edibility of Golden ear

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Edibility of Golden ear

Although technically edible, the golden ear, a variety of jelly fungus, is almost never eaten. This little fungus lacks any flavor, is usually quite small, and has a texture which most consider to be unappealing.

Similar Species to Golden ear

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Tips for Finding Golden ear

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When is the Best Time to Find Golden ear

Search for golden ear after rainfall when the weather is moist, as this encourages fruiting. Best found in cooler temperatures of late fall or winter, when there's enough humidity but the ground isn't frozen.

What are Some Tips for Finding Golden ear

Search for golden ear in areas with downed hardwood, focusing particularly on decaying wood pieces.
Look for the presence of Stereum hirsutum, as golden ear is often found parasitizing this bracket fungus.
Inspect fallen branches and tree stumps in coastal forests, as these are common substrates for golden ear.
Explore lower elevations in suitable areas, as golden ear tends to grow in such environmental conditions.
Be thorough in searching, as golden ear may blend in with its host fungi and surrounding wood.

How to Clean and Preserve Golden ear

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How to Clean Golden ear

To clean golden ear, gently brush off any debris or particles from its jelly-like surface, without soaking or applying heavy pressure, to maintain integrity. Air-drying post-cleaning is recommended.

Tips on Dry Preservation of Golden ear

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

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

Dehydrator drying: Uniformly dries with controlled temperature, minimizing spoilage risk and preserving texture.

Oven drying: Controlled and consistent heat source ensuring a faster drying process.

Air drying: Natural method, suitable for low humidity environments, longer drying time.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of Golden ear

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Briefly immerse in boiling water to deactivate enzymes.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of Golden ear

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Cloth Wrapping, Original Packaging Storage, Container with Absorbent Lining

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Allows moisture to escape, preventing sogginess and decay.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Slight airflow reduces condensation and spoilage risk.

Cloth Wrapping: Absorbs excess moisture, maintaining freshness.

Original Packaging Storage: If sold in a breathable container, retain packaging to balance humidity and air exposure.

Container with Absorbent Lining: A lining of paper towel in a container will absorb moisture and delay spoilage.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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