Turkey tail mushrooms, renowned for their distinctive appearance and impressive health benefits, are gaining popularity among culinary and health enthusiasts alike. Their versatility in the kitchen and potential to boost immunity and overall well-being make them a valuable addition to any pantry.
This comprehensive guide delves into the world of turkey tail mushrooms, exploring their appearance, identification tips, culinary applications, and health benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned forager or simply curious about this fascinating fungus, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to incorporate turkey tail mushrooms into your diet and lifestyle.
Understanding Turkey Tail Mushrooms
What are Turkey Tail Mushrooms?
Turkey tail mushrooms, scientifically known as Trametes versicolor, are a species of polypore fungus commonly found on decaying logs and stumps in temperate forests worldwide Their distinctive fan-shaped appearance, resembling the tail feathers of a turkey, has earned them their unique name
What Do Turkey Tail Mushrooms Look Like?
Turkey tail mushrooms are characterized by their:
- Shape: Fan-shaped or semicircular brackets with thin, leathery texture.
- Size: Typically ranging from 2 to 10 centimeters in diameter.
- Color: Multicolored zones of brown, gray, white, and black, often with concentric rings.
- Upper Surface: Dry and smooth, with a velvety or suede-like texture.
- Underside: White or cream-colored, with numerous tiny pores.
- Growth Habit: Growing in clusters or overlapping layers on logs and stumps.
Where to Find Turkey Tail Mushrooms
Turkey tail mushrooms can be found growing on decaying logs and stumps in forests and woodlands. However, due to their popularity and potential health benefits, they can also be purchased from online retailers, specialty grocery stores, and some farmers’ markets.
Identifying Turkey Tail Mushrooms
5 Easy Ways to Identify Turkey Tail Mushrooms:
- Rich Brown Color: When mature, these mushrooms resemble a turkey’s tail in both shape and color. Think of all the rich browns you see in a turkey’s tail, and you’ll get the picture. They also have multiple (often multicolored) stripes that follow the contours of the mushroom’s shape (hence the name versicolor).
- No Algae: Algae doesn’t grow on these mushrooms, so if you see a mushroom with green algae on the top, you’ve got the wrong guy—or, I guess I should say ‘gi’.
- White Bottoms: Be sure to check the underside of the mushroom. If it’s bright white, you know you are on the right track! If it’s starting to turn brown—take a pass.
- Many Holes: Be sure to check for all the tell-tale tiny holes that are scattered all over the bottom of this mushroom. These holes are why they are called a polypore (meaning many holes). FYI: There are look-alikes that are totally smooth. The holes are visible, but can be small, so you may want to carry a small hand lens or loop to be sure. (*Plus it’s always fun to carry a hand lens with you. They open up whole worlds to us that we might not see otherwise!)
- Flexible & Leathery: Think suede in texture and smell. They are soft to the touch and flexible, but are also pretty tough and dry in overall feel.
Additional Tips for Identifying Turkey Tail Mushrooms:
- Look for white pores underneath: The underside of a turkey tail mushroom should have white or cream-colored pores, which are tiny holes that release spores.
- Check for a leathery texture: Turkey tail mushrooms have a tough, leathery texture that is similar to suede.
- Observe the growth habit: Turkey tail mushrooms typically grow in clusters or overlapping layers on logs and stumps.
- Use a field guide or online resources: If you’re unsure about the identification of a mushroom, it’s always best to consult a reliable field guide or online resource.
Culinary Uses of Turkey Tail Mushrooms
Turkey tail mushrooms have a tough, leathery texture that makes them unsuitable for sautéing or stir-frying. However, there are plenty of ways to access their medicinal benefits:
- Dry and powder them: Use them like you would a bay leaf in your favorite soup.
- Make a delicious broth: Simmer dried turkey tail mushrooms in water for 30-60 minutes to create a flavorful and potentially health-boosting broth.
- Make Turkey Tail tea: To make Turkey Tail tea, take 4-5 medium-sized mushrooms and tear into small pieces. Simmer in water on low heat for at least 20-30 minutes. Feel free to experiment—e.g. you can brew this tea for longer and/or add more mushrooms for a stronger flavor. Another idea is to “brew” turkey tail mushrooms for 6-8 hours in a crock pot—like you would a broth. Then freeze the broth in ice cube trays that you can warm up for tea or add to your favorite soups and stews.
Health Benefits of Turkey Tail Mushrooms
Turkey tail mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and modern scientific research has begun to unravel the impressive health benefits associated with this fungus. Studies suggest that turkey tail mushrooms may:
- Boost the immune system: Polysaccharides and other bioactive compounds in turkey tail mushrooms are believed to stimulate the production and activity of immune cells, potentially enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases.
- Exhibit anti-cancer properties: Research indicates that turkey tail mushrooms may possess anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects, potentially inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells.
- Support gut health: Prebiotics found in turkey tail mushrooms promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, contributing to improved digestion and overall gut health.
- Reduce inflammation: Antioxidants and other bioactive compounds in turkey tail mushrooms may help reduce inflammation throughout the body, potentially alleviating symptoms of chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Support liver health: Turkey tail mushrooms may help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins and inflammation.
- Improve cognitive function: Some studies suggest that turkey tail mushrooms may help improve memory and cognitive function.
- Reduce fatigue: Turkey tail mushrooms may help reduce fatigue and improve energy levels.
Disclaimer: It’s important to note that the health benefits of turkey tail mushrooms are still being researched, and more studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness. If you’re considering using turkey tail mushrooms for medicinal purposes, it’s essential to talk to your doctor first.
Turkey tail mushrooms are a versatile and potentially health-boosting addition to any diet. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can easily identify and incorporate this unique fungus into your culinary creations and potentially experience its impressive health benefits. Whether you’re looking to enhance your immune system, support gut health, or simply add a unique flavor to your dishes, turkey tail mushrooms are a worthy addition to your pantry.
Real Versus False Turkey Tail
Turkey tail mushrooms grows abundantly on dead trees and logs in the wild. They are one of the most common forest mushrooms. Turkey tail can come in a wide range of colors, and one can look quite different from another.
But it doesn’t end there. Some other mushrooms look very much like Trametes versicolor, making things more confusing. These imposters are commonly called “false turkey tail mushrooms,” and include Stereum ostrea, Stereum hirstum, and Trichaptum abietinum.
So, how can you tell the difference between “true” and “false” turkey tail mushrooms?
If you come across what looks like Trametes versicolor on your hike, flip the mushroom over. Since a real turkey tail fungus has pores visible on its white underside, it is categorized as a polypore (i e. many pored) mushroom. Whereas, S. ostrea and S. hirstum have yellow, smooth undersides. You will also commonly find S. ostrea mushrooms with algae on them (1).
Turkey Tail Mushroom Identification
Luckily, when it comes to turkey tail mushroom identification there are no toxic lookalikes. Therefore, even if you don’t end up finding “the real thing,” it’s safe to go mushroom hunting. Because while some mushrooms may have a similar appearance, they do not have the beneficial properties that turkey tail, or Trametes versicolor as it is scientifically known, is valued for.
So, use our 4-point checklist below to help you find the real deal. Afterwards, you can use your newly acquired ability to deduce mushrooms during your upcoming woodland stroll. You can bring some fresh turkey tail home to make a nutritious tea if you choose to forage what you find.
How to Identify Turkey Tail Mushrooms ( and distinguish from false lookalikes )
FAQ
Are there any poisonous look alikes to turkey tail mushroom?
How can you tell if a mushroom is turkey tail?
Is a turkey tail mushroom edible?
What does turkey tail mushroom do for the body?