Chanterelles are noted for their soft flesh and apricot-like
fragrance.
The name “chanterelle” refers both to the mushroom known as the golden
chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius) and to other closely related species.
Chanterelles grow in forests in temperate regions. They can be distinguished from most other
mushrooms by their cap, which is wrinkled, rather than gilled, on the underside. The cap is a
wavy cup-shape and firm, and ranges from 3/4-inch to 4 inches (1.9 to 10cm) across. Depending
on the variety, the cap can be yellow, orange, white, brownish gray, or black. Most
chanterelles are 3 to 5 inches (7.5 to 12. 5cm) high from root to cap. Chanterelles are noted
for their soft flesh and apricot-like fragrance.
Varieties
Golden chanterelles
Red chanterelles
Trumpet (or funnel) chanterelles
White chanterelles
Buying and storing tips
When buying fresh chanterelles, select mushrooms with a spongy, firm,
and fleshy cap. Fresh chanterelles keep for up to seven days in the refrigerator and up to one
year in the freezer. Store dried chanterelles in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.
Availability
Chanterelle mushrooms are sold fresh, dried, and canned in many
grocery stores.
Preparation, uses, and tips
Before using fresh chanterelles, rinse them quickly, drain them
immediately, and dry them with a cloth or paper towel. To reconstitute dried chanterelles,
cover them with warm water and allow them to soak for approximately one hour. Chanterelles are
best when cooked. Sauté or fry them for 3 to 5 minutes; or cook them with a small amount
of liquid in a covered pan for 15 minutes. Chanterelles combine nicely with meat,
shellfish, and eggs. They can also be added to soups,
sauces, and grain dishes. Avoid using chanterelles with ingredients that have strong competing
flavors, such as garlic or spices.
Nutritional Highlights
Chanterelle mushroom, 1 large
Calories: 1.7
Protein: 0.12g
Carbohydrate: 0.35g
Total Fat: 0.02g
Fiber: 0.13g
Copyright © 2002 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights
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Foodnotes.
The information presented in Foodnotes is for informational
purposes only and was created by a team of U.S. registered dietitians and food experts.
Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using
any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed
medications. Information expires December 2003.
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