Chicken of the Woods - Laetiporous sulphureus
We found this large and attractive bracket fungus on a dead log sometime in mid-September. This is a very pretty fungus that shades from lemony yellow to bright orange. It is thick and fleshy and looks absolutely delectable. We collected a quantity of it and brought it home. After a bit more research we learned that a significant portion of the population, something like fifty percent, is allergic to this mushroom. As all the symptoms we could discover involved dizziness and nausea, rather than death, we decided to eat it.
We cooked it well with some kohlrabi in a somewhat Asian inspired broth. As promised, this mushroom has a flavor and texture reminiscent of chicken. The problem is that it most resembles chicken fat. The first time we had it, I found it to be pretty gross, but that may be because I was expecting violent illness to commence at any moment. The next night, though, I found it much more palatable. We decided to freeze the rest with the intent to dry it. I suspect that this will improve the texture of the mushroom.
Our verdict: consume with caution, and cook thoroughly.