For some, the mushroom is a perfect accompaniment to any dish and it is a favourite food of the Tuscany region, which is why autumn is the perfect season to take a holiday here. Book villas with pools in Tuscany so that you can partake in the amazing autumn season devoted to mushrooms. Locals and even tourists grab onto a wicker basket, determined to head out into the forests and fields in search of the grand mushroom.
Mushroom Varieties: Edible and Inedible
The forests and fields span many kilometres, sprawling throughout Tuscany and allowing mushrooms to pop up pretty much everywhere. Several varieties are seen such as the porcini, but one must be careful as edible and inedible species of mushrooms mix quite readily. Given the explosion of mushrooms found in Tuscany it is not surprising they are imperative to Tuscan cuisine, being used in numerous dishes like antipasto for starters and in many main courses, too!
Besides the porcini, Maremma and Mugello mushrooms can be located. If you hope to discover a much rarer mushroom that is a possibility with the prugnolo, also notable in this region of Italy. Intense with flavour, the prugnolo gained acclaim during the Renaissance period. When booking properties with pools in Tuscany to search out rare mushrooms consider the Tiber Valley. Experienced mushroom gatherers are not going to be specific on where you can find the prugnolo as they really are that special.
If you want more adventure go hunting for mushrooms without a guide. It is best to gain information first to make certain you are within local laws for picking. For some mushrooms and areas you will need a local permit and be sure to follow a few rules. For instance, you may be held to picking during the daylight hours where you can only gather 3 kg of mushrooms.
As there are inedible mushrooms be aware of which mushrooms should be picked for eating and those you should not. Autumn is the best time of year to go hunting as the warm and damp conditions lend to mushroom growth. Back in your villa, wipe them clean and start grilling, frying or seasoning them. A great option is to grill your mushrooms with olive oil, thyme, garlic, and salt and ground pepper. Locals serve them with fettuccine or pasta pappardelle.
Taking pleasure in villas with tempting pools in Tuscany might be a part of your adventures, but why not add to it with mushroom foraging and cooking your favourite Italian meal with fresh Tuscan mushrooms?