Edible Fungi of Britain and Northern Europe: How to Identify, Collect and Prepare
- Edible Fungi of Britain and Northern Europe: How to Identify, Collect and Prepare by Jens H Peterson.
- Princeton University Press, 2023. 160 pages, colour photos.
- ISBN: 9780691245195. Hbk, £17.99.
When out in the field, particularly during autumn, it is hard not to notice some of the impressive fungi sprouting from fields, tree stumps and woodland floors. Their shapes, forms and colours seem never ending and, much like when confronted with immature large gulls for the first time, making a correct identification seems like an impossible task.
Many birders will have been on a fungi walk or two at some point – but have you ever seriously considered collecting and eating your quarry? It is understandable why some would be put off by this idea – the fear of consuming something that will make you sick (or worse!) can be quite off-putting.
But, with familiarity, distinguishing those fungi that will taste delicious from those that can hospitalise you isn't the terrifyingly challenging task it might seem at first. And that's where Jens H Peterson's new book, Edible Fungi of Britain and Northern Europe, will come in handy. This photo-heavy hardcover guide will help you get to know how to distinguish the edible morel species from False Morel, while learn to avoid the ominously named Deathcap, Destroying Angel and Funeral Bell.
Peterson's book offers a wonderful introduction to the world of fungi, offering valuable advice on collecting, cooking and even preserving the mushrooms you find. It gives tips on what's likely to taste best, while also warning readers of those mushrooms that are edible but may be something of an 'acquired' taste. Its information-filled pages and overall compactness make it a neat addition to any naturalist's bookshelf without.
