Seasons/Availability
Hedgehog mushrooms are available late summer through late winter.
Current Facts
Hedgehog mushrooms, botanically classified as Hydnum repandum, are a member of the Hydnaceae family. They are also commonly known as Sweet Tooth mushrooms and Wood Hedgehogs and can be found growing on dead or decaying conifer wood. Hedgehog mushrooms have been foraged for centuries in North American and Europe as a food source. Today they are commercially cultivated throughout the United States and Canada on an extremely small scale.
Nutritional Value
Hedgehog mushrooms contain high levels of vitamins B2, B3, potassium, phosphorus, copper, and choline. They also contain some dietary fiber.
Storage
Hedgehog mushrooms should be stored in paper bags inside the refrigerator where they will keep for up to five days. They should not be stored in plastic bags as they can become slimy and slimy mushrooms are not safe to eat.
Preparation
Hedgehog mushrooms should be cleaned thoroughly with a damp cloth or brush before use. The spore-bearing teeth under the cap should also be rinsed off since these will hold onto dirt more easily than the rest of the mushroom. Hedgehogs are usually cooked before consumption, but can also be eaten raw when very young. When cooking, sautéing, grilling, baking, and roasting are all popular methods and they pair well with vegetables, herbs, poultry, beef, pork, fish, pasta dishes, sauces, omelets, and soups.
For more information on Hedgehog mushrooms or other mushroom varieties please consult a knowledgeable mycologist or mushroom expert.
