Unlike Bunashimeji, Eryngii does not have a base. You can use all of them without cutting anything. As a reminder, The best Eryngii have curled caps with white and resilient stems.
Q.
Category: King Trumpet
Q.
What are the white powders around the caps?
These are spores of the mushroom. The mushroom is still alive and fresh even after being harvested and packaged. Sometimes they will generate spores inside package. This does not affect the quality of the mushroom and is safe to cook and consume.
Q.
The mushroom is soggy and releases water when squeezed.
Mushrooms are 90% water in comparison to Spinach or Cabbage which can have a water content between 91-93%. Due to the high water content, when you squeeze the mushroom water will come out. It is also very water absorbent and can absorb the condensation within the package. Lastly, if the mushroom is damaged it will deteriorate sooner and release some of its moisture.
Q.
Does Eryngii smell like chemicals?
In rare cases, some people claim that Eryngii smells like chemicals. If there is an ammonia-like smell it is a sign that the mushroom has gone bad.
Q.
The mushroom caps are curled, is it safe?
Inside the package, mushrooms may keep growing. As Eryngii grow, all the gills under the cap may open up and some of them develop curled cap. They are safe to consume.