May Baltic is a solid, fleshy mushroom that appears in May. In Europe, this fungus is so respected that it even has a separate name – “St. George’s Mushroom”. Despite its modest appearance, the May Baltic is considered a real delicacy.
What does the May Baltic look like?
This fungus has a light, almost white or creamy cap with a diameter of 3 to 10 cm, and with age changes shape – from semi -spherical to slightly wavy.
The stalk is thick, short – up to 8 cm high, often with thickening at the base. The sheets are narrow, frequent, unusually thin even mature mushrooms, and the flesh is dense and juicy.
The appearance is modest, without bright colors or patterns, but this is what makes the mushroom recognizable. One of the characteristic signs is the smell: “Miltis”, as often indicated in the manuals, or similar to the smell of fresh grass.
It grows mostly in groups, forming “witchcraft wheels”.
Where does this fungus grow?
May Baltic can be found in open areas – fringes, meadows, light forests or on the outskirts of the fields. He likes sunny places where the grass is not very dense, and well -warmed soil.
Often it can be found in rural roads or in city parks and lawns.
The fungus is particularly active in areas with average moisture and many organic residues. Sometimes even in flower beds. It does not shy away from human proximity, so it occurs in unexpected places.
When to collect May Baltics?
The name speaks for itself – May Baltic appears mostly in May, although the first specimens may appear as early as late April.
The mass harmony occurs in the middle of spring, when the soil is well warmed but still retains moisture.
It is traditionally collected by the West on April 23 – the Day of St. George, from where the name “George Mushroom”. However, it is best to look for it all in May at our latitudes.
This is one of the few really spring mushrooms. It is almost impossible to find it after June.
How is May Baltic different from other mushrooms?
The appearance of the May Baltic is similar to some dangerous species, especially the poisonous white musk. It is possible to separate them according to the time of appearance – poisonous growth from August, and May only spring.
In addition, white musk smells pungent, mold and moisture, and May – mild, meal or cucumber.
Another feature is the color of the sheets: in May they are thin and light even when mature. The fungus is completely eaten and will be delicious both fried and cooked.
Source: https://www.bc.ua/
Photos associative © canva
Hi, I’m a Kamil, Hitas.lt author. The passion for cooking, home coziness and personal well -being inspires me to share discoveries – recipes and tips on love for myself – with you, dear readers.
