In this first of an exciting new series that focuses on specific aspects of rural living and eating, mushroom expert John Wright explains how to identify and collect (or avoid) the mushrooms and toadstools we are most likely to encounter in the UK with diagrams, detailed profiles and handy tips.
Starting with a brief introduction to mushroom biology and taxonomy, John explains the ins and outs 
of collecting, including relevant UK laws, conservation notes, practical tips and identification techniques, complete with diagrams and line drawings.
He also introduces the River Cottage Magic Seven Challenge, a great first test that will inspire everyone to put their wellies on. Then he describes and distinguishes more than sixty of the species we are most likely to come across during forays in Britain's forests and clearings: old friends the Chanterelle and Cep, as well as a whole colourful host of more unfamiliar names - edible species including the Velvet Shank, the Horn of Plenty, the Amethyst Deceiver, the Giant Puffball and the Chicken in the Woods, and poisonous types such as the Sickener, the Death Cap and the Destroying Angel.
The handbook is completed by more than thirty simple and delicious mushroom recipes from the River Cottage team. Small enough to fit in a waterproof pocket, with colour photographs throughout and an introduction by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, 'The River Cottage Mushroom Handbook' is a comprehensive and user-friendly guide destined to be an indispensable household reference.
Comments from a very happy Mushroom handbook customer: I must give you an immense and heartfelt thank you for the splendid handbook No. 1! It is an excellent piece of work and a credit to you all. John is evidently an expert in the field of mycology. It is written with great attention to detail and wit, and is surely a must for any forager! The recipes are mouth watering too. It has surpassed my wildest dreams, as a beginner in such forays, the "also look out for", "beware" and "PS" notes are most enlightening and entertaining. I cannot commend the book enough.
Shortlisted for The Guild of Food Writers Jeremy Round Award for Best First Book.
Order your signed copy today.
Please note that if you have River Cottage Membership, you are entitled to a FURTHER, automatic 10% discount on this product. To find out more about River Cottage Membership click here .