Caesar’s Mushroom, or Chicken Egg Mushroom, is an intriguing variety with a unique appearance and a rich history. But what exactly is it, and why is it so expensive, often costing almost half a million Vietnamese Dong per kilogram?
1 What is the Chicken Egg Mushroom? What Makes it Special?
The Chicken Egg Mushroom, also known as Caesar’s Mushroom, owes its name to two distinct features: its resemblance to a chicken egg and its association with the Roman Emperor Caesar. This variety was named by the mycologist Scopoli, who chose the name to honor Emperor Caesar’s fondness for this delicious fungus.
Chicken Egg Mushroom – What is it and what makes it special?
Originating from Europe and North Africa, the Chicken Egg Mushroom has also been discovered and cultivated in the fertile red basalt soils of Central Vietnam, the Tay Nguyen region, and the Southern provinces of Vietnam. This aromatic and flavorful mushroom is a favorite among locals and is only available during the rainy season, typically from late June to early July.
The Chicken Egg Mushroom boasts a distinctive appearance, with its cap resembling a chicken egg. The bright orange cap, averaging 15 cm in diameter, has a smooth surface with subtle striations and is enveloped by a thick, white membrane. The cap never becomes concave or depressed, and it bears small lines along its edges. The flesh of the mushroom is yellow, with a white layer beneath the epidermis, emitting a pleasant aroma.
The stem of the Chicken Egg Mushroom is cylindrical, standing tall at 8-15 cm in height and 2-4 cm in width. It is firm and usually pale yellow to orange in color.
One fascinating aspect of this mushroom is that its color varies depending on its age. Mature mushrooms have a uniform orange or slightly redder center, fading to orange towards the edges, while younger ones are lighter in color.
2 Delicious Dishes Featuring Chicken Egg Mushrooms
Chicken Egg Mushroom Porridge
Chicken Egg Mushroom Porridge
Chicken Egg Mushroom Porridge is a nutritious dish that provides essential nutrients and boosts energy levels effectively. The natural sweetness of the mushrooms infuses each spoonful of porridge, and the crisp texture adds a delightful crunch to the dish, making it a favorite among many.
Chicken Egg Mushroom and Yam Stir-Fry
Chicken Egg Mushroom and Yam Stir-Fry
This stir-fry dish is a perfect blend of slightly cooked mushrooms that retain their natural sweetness and crispness, combined with tender yams seasoned just right. It’s a light and healthy meal that aids in weight loss due to its low-calorie content.
Chicken Egg Mushroom Salad
The Chicken Egg Mushroom Salad is a refreshing dish that combines the crisp, sweet mushrooms with green vegetables and a light vinaigrette. It’s a nutritious option that provides the body with essential minerals and vitamins.
Chicken Egg Mushroom and Loofah Stir-Fry
Chicken Egg Mushroom and Loofah Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is a favorite among many due to its aromatic fragrance and perfectly cooked mushrooms. The sweetness of the mushrooms and the crisp texture of the loofah are beautifully preserved, making it a delicious and healthy option that aids in weight loss and energy replenishment.
3 Benefits of Chicken Egg Mushrooms
Benefits of Chicken Egg Mushrooms
Nutritional Boost
Chicken Egg Mushrooms are packed with minerals, providing the body with essential nutrients. They help boost immunity and strengthen the body’s natural defenses.
Weight Loss Aid
With a low-calorie count and high fiber content, these mushrooms are ideal for weight loss regimens. Combining their consumption with regular exercise yields the best results.
Vitamin D Source
Chicken Egg Mushrooms are rich in Vitamin D, which optimizes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, contributing to strong bones and teeth.
Antioxidant Properties
Antioxidant Properties of Chicken Egg Mushrooms
These mushrooms contain beta-carotene, which is beneficial for vision and skin health. They are also rich in antioxidants, boosting immunity and aiding in skin rejuvenation.
Digestive Benefits
The high fiber content in Chicken Egg Mushrooms helps regulate digestion and prevents constipation.
4 How to Distinguish Chicken Egg Mushrooms from Goose Egg Mushrooms
Distinguishing Chicken Egg Mushrooms from Goose Egg Mushrooms
The simplest way to differentiate between Chicken Egg and Goose Egg Mushrooms is by their color. Goose Egg Mushrooms have an ivory color similar to goose eggs, while Chicken Egg Mushrooms boast a reddish-yellow hue, just like chicken eggs.
5 Price and Availability of Chicken Egg Mushrooms
Price and Availability of Chicken Egg Mushrooms
At the start of the season, Chicken Egg Mushrooms can cost around 500,000 Vietnamese Dong per kilogram, and the price tends to drop to 200,000-350,000 Vietnamese Dong per kilogram as the season progresses.
To purchase these mushrooms, you’ll have to wait until June or July when they are in season, and even then, they are not abundantly available. Your best bet is to pre-order from well-known agricultural stores or individuals who specialize in foraging these mushrooms in southern provinces like Binh Phuoc and Lam Dong. Alternatively, you can explore online options through e-commerce platforms.
We hope this article has piqued your interest in this unique variety of mushroom. If you’re a mushroom enthusiast, be sure to give the Chicken Egg Mushroom a try!
