Porcini Mushrooms

Porcini belong to the Boletus genus of mushrooms, characterized by a soft, meaty white body that does not change color after it is cut (Boletus that change colors to blue when cut or bruised should not be eaten. Porcini grow in association of specific trees and are considered mycorrihzal associates – in effect, Porcini live in a symbiotic relationship with the trees they grow under. Many mushroom foragers find Porcini living under pine trees, poking up through the dead needles, but it is considered by many that the best Porcini are picked in chestnut woods. These Porcini are known for a light-colored hat and are the best eaten fresh. As the Porcini gets older, its underhat turns a darker color. All species of Porcini are characterized by a big, round, fleshy cap that is supported by a short round stalk.

            There are several different types and qualities of porcini mushrooms. Boletus Edulis or Porcino D’ Autunno (Autumn Porcino) is one of the most sought after Boletus species in the world. Referred to as the “King”, this Porcino (called Cep in France) is found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Fresh Porcini of this species are sought after my mushroom hunters the world over and have recently started being exported out of Russia where they are known as Belyi Grib. Boletus Brisa is an Italian variety that grows mainly in the Apennines near Parma and in other mountain areas. Porcini with dark hats known as Porcino Nero grow in stands of beech or fir trees and are more suitable to be preserved, but are less tasty. Porcino d’ estate or Boletus Reticulates is found in the summer near evergreens while Porcino del Freddo are found in the colder areas.

            Gathering wild Porcini is still the preferred way of getting fresh mushrooms but is not suggested unless you are properly trained. California and New Mexico in the US are major hotspots for Porcini gathering, with large harvests available in the pine forests and mountain areas. In Italy Porcini are almost too popular, with gathering strictly regulated as Boletus is becoming endangered from over-harvesting. A permit is required and a strict quota of two kilos per week is enforced. Porcini harvesters in Italy are also required to gather the mushrooms in open baskets to let spores escape and ensure the survival of the mushroom.

            When buying fresh Porcini, carefully examine the mushroom for signs of age. If the undersides of the caps have a yellowish-brown tinge to them, the mushrooms are becoming over-ripe. Do not buy a Porcino if is has a dark under-cap or black spots on it. Also look out for tiny holes in the stem, which is a sign of worms. If you do notice some signs of worms after purchasing them, stand the Porcini on their caps for a time to allow the worms (they are harmless) to escape out of the stalk. Brush off any dirt you may find and wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp cloth. You can wash them in cold water if you want, but only if you plan to use them right away.

            In Italy fresh Porcini mushrooms are preferred grilled and served with fresh olive oil and parsley.

            In Italy the Porcini that are not ideal for eating fresh are often jarred or canned in olive oil. The Porcino Nero, with its dark cap as well as other Porcini that grow under fir trees make the most likely candidate for preserving. The oil preservation seems to make these lesser Porcini much tastier than if they were used fresh and are extremely versatile, replacing both fresh or dried in recipes. When looking for Porcini mushrooms jarred in oil choose extra virgin olive oil and make sure the jar was not exposed to too much light. You may find local Boletus species preserved in oil and they are most likely very good, but may have a different flavor than Italian Porcini due to the huge variety in the Boletus genus and growing conditions.

            Dried Porcini is how most consumers see these mushrooms in the supermarkets. Dried Porcini have a concentrated flavor and mushroom aroma that is excellent in Risotto, soups, and some amazing sauces. To prepare dried Porcini steep them in boiling water to cover until they are reconstituted. After draining the Porcini mince, them but keep the steeping liquid. This liquid adds even more concentrated Porcini flavor to the recipe, just make sure you strain it first. When buying dried Porcini look them over carefully. A bag of old, crumbly pieces and dust will be worthless. A strong mushroom aroma should greet you once opening the package, if the mushrooms have no smell, then they have no flavor either. Like fresh Porcini, look over the package for signs of worms and do not buy them if there are pinholes in the mushrooms. Dried Porcini should not be neglected, they may not be as versatile as fresh mushrooms, but their flavors have been concentrated to a point where they can really make a difference when going for that authentic flavor.