matsutake madness

matsutakes are mushrooms highly prized by the japanese and people around the world for their unusual flavor and texture. we hit the jackpot this year -- also called the pine mushroom you get the idea of where you may find them pushing up out of the forest duff.


this unopened mushroom is the most prized. japanese have been known to pay $80 for one "number one" grade matsutake.


a number two or three grade.


cooking the goodness. these mushrooms are easily identified by their distinct cinnamon smell. dry sauteeing them brings out the flavor and chewy texture of this fungi.