If you are interested in exploring the utilization of foraged foods, you must try the Chicken of the Woods recipe. A firm texture and a unique poultry-like taste characterize this bright red and yellow wild mushroom. This quick chicken of the woods recipe will give you a taste of its versatility for a fast dinner meal or for those who want to challenge their taste buds more.
What is Chicken of the Woods?
Chicken of the Woods is an edible mushroom that typically fruits on trees, preferably the hardwood ones like oak. Its name was given to its texture and flavor that resembles that of chicken meat. A great source of fiber, vitamins, and other antioxidant compounds, it can only help to improve your diet in one way or the other. To those who have been yearning for the chicken of the woods recipes that involve then this one will make the list.
Ingredients for an Easy Chicken of the Woods Recipe
For this sautéed Chicken of the Woods recipe, you will need:
- 2 cups Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, washed and cut into ¼-inch thick rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- If fresh Thyme is available 1 tbsp should be added or ½ tbsp dried Thyme.
- Salt and black pepper to the taste.
- ½ cup vegetable broth (becomes unnecessary if using a dense vegetable such as potato or carrot as a base instead of water)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Server garnishes of rinds (lemon wedges, lime slices, grapefruit slices, etc.; optional)
Preparation Time for Chicken of the Woods Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Steps for Making This Tasty Chicken of the Woods Recipe
1. Prep the mushrooms:
- Start with the proper washing of the Chicken of the Woods.
- Shake them lightly or wash them with a sponge if necessary, do not scrub remove dirt using a soft brush.
- Do not put them in water, for they tend to swell. This step is always important for the preparation of a chicken of the woods recipe that is clean and tasty.
2. Heat the oil:
- In a large skillet make sure to melt 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter on medium flame.
- Add the chopped onion into it and stir fry for 2-3 minutes and it should turn translucent.
3. Add garlic and thyme:
- Add the minced garlic and thyme and mix well, sauté for one more minute.
4. Cook the mushrooms:
- Add the sliced Chicken of the Woods to your skillet.
- Add tomato sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes at medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- The mushroom should become bright golden brown and have a hint of firmness on the outer surface.
This step finishes one of the important processes of this Chicken of the Woods recipe.
5. Add broth (optional):
- For a softer and juicer preparation, pour half a cup of vegetable broth into the pan and allow it to boil for 3-4 minutes until the liquid has evaporated.
6. Season and serve:
- You should use salt and black pepper to put some flavor in the dish.
- Sprinkle it with the chopped parsley and accompany it with lemon wedges for a small spot of acidity.
- Bon appetite with your friends and dear ones while having the chicken of the woods recipe!
Final Thoughts
The Chicken of the Woods mushrooms are an interesting addition to one’s cuisine and are a great vegetarian source of protein. The wholesome yet easy-to-prepare Chicken of the Woods recipe proves that creating tasty, healthy meals can be a breeze. The next time you get your hands on this delicious wild find, please give my recipe down below a go and perhaps this is the reason why mushroom hunters and food lovers go gaga over this amazing edible treasure!
