A large white ball like growth was nestled deeply in the undergrowth. We were walking on the coastal path between Barbaras house in Boarhills and her favourite beach on this length of the 'East Neuk of Fife' coastline South of the well known and popular University town and Golfing mecca of St Andrews.
"Come see" I said to Barbara as I scrambled among the damp dappled green undergrowth.
"I think it's a 'Pufball' mushroom and if so is edible." I said to the both impressed, cautious and sceptical Barbara as she touched its firm white outer surface.
The last time I'd seen or tasted a Puffball was way back in my teens so I too needed confirmation as to its safety over and above a dim and distant memory. Mushrooms kill and seriously damage unaware or foolish humans. I had no intention of becoming a victim. I know how powerful perfectly safe mushrooms can be if consumed in quantity when very fresh having recently been high as a kite at three am due to over indulgence of delicious and very fresh Shitakee mushrooms. At the time it was OK and entertaining but it also granted sobering thoughts as to consequences of 'wrong' mushrooms.
We moved on leaving the fruiting fungi behind while noting it, and its larger companions, location.
Once back in Smart phone signal range 'You Tube' soon confirmed I had correctly identified an edible Puffball mushroom. Next days early morning Tanya doggy walk saw me returning bearing one large white spherical 'Puffball mushroom. Slicing it in half and seeing the pure white Tofu like consistency gave further confirmation of safety to consume. Frying up half inch, steak like slices in melted butter, adding salt to taste, and eating them was sublime satisfaction.
I'm also still here to tell the tale and none the worse for it. Plus there is an additional bonus. You can slice up and freeze this fungi. Mmmmm... I'm looking forward to my next fry up, mushroom omelette or whatever idea or recipe takes my fancy.
