
10/12/2025
I’m hoping to find another massive Maitake this season — last year’s was over 25 pounds! Many of you might know this mushroom by its other name, Hen of the Woods.
This is easily one of my favorite finds. Not only is it stunning in the wild, but it’s also one of the most flavorful mushrooms you can cook with. Maitake has an incredibly rich, savory flavor and a tender, meaty texture that makes it perfect for dishes like a “Philly cheesesteak” no meat required.
Now’s the perfect time to get out there and forage for these beauties. They love to grow at the base of old oak trees, especially after a few cool autumn rains. If you’ve never tried finding or cooking one, I can’t recommend it enough — it’s one of the most rewarding wild mushrooms to harvest and enjoy.