John Miller
John Wright is a mycologist, author, and expert in foraging for wild food. He has written several books on foraging, including the River Cottage Handbook series, which covers topics such as mushroom hunting, foraging on the seashore, and finding edible ingredients in the British countryside. Wright has also been a lecturer and guide at River Cottage HQ since 1994 and has accompanied Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall on mushroom hunts for the River Cottage TV series. In addition to his writing and lecturing, Wright organizes and leads mushroom forays in various locations, including the New Forest and Tunbridge Wells. He is passionate about conservation and was involved in the preservation of 200 acres of land rich in fungi in west Dorset.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- John Wright, a mycologist and author, has been introducing people to mushroom hunting since 1994
- Wright's forays usually find 50-75 species, but in 2022, 90 species were catalogued over 2 days
- Wright has written three books on foraging and one on home brewing
- Wright's handbook includes conservation notes, practical tips, and identification techniques
- Wright's handbook also includes 30 simple mushroom recipes from the River Cottage team
John Wright, a mycologist and author, has been introducing people to mushroom hunting since 1994
Wright's expertise in mycology and foraging is widely recognized, and he has become a regular lecturer and guide at River Cottage HQ. He has accompanied Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall on mushroom hunts for the River Cottage TV series, showcasing his knowledge and passion for wild mushrooms. Wright's engaging writing style and sense of humour shine through in his books, making them accessible and enjoyable for both amateur mycologists and those who simply love mushrooms.
In addition to his writing, Wright organizes and leads mushroom forays in various locations, including Dorset, Devon, Hampshire, and Tunbridge Wells. These forays offer an opportunity for participants to explore different habitats and discover a diverse range of fungi. Wright's forays typically yield 50-75 species, but in exceptional years like 2022, he has catalogued up to 90 species over just two days. Moon Down, for instance, is described as a "mycological treasure," boasting a large number of edible species such as Penny Bun, Chanterelle, Saffron Milkcap, and Puffballs.
Wright's passion for mushroom hunting extends beyond simply finding and consuming fungi. He believes in the importance of conservation and has successfully encouraged the Nature Conservancy Council to purchase and preserve 200 acres of land rich in fungi in west Dorset. His advocacy for responsible foraging and engagement with organizations like the Verderers' Court of the New Forest reflect his commitment to sustainable practices. Wright's expertise and dedication to sharing his knowledge have made him a trusted source for media outlets seeking insights into wild mushroom hunting and foraging.
Mushrooms in Clinics: The Healing Power of Fungi
You may want to see also
Wright's forays usually find 50-75 species, but in 2022, 90 species were catalogued over 2 days
John Wright, an acknowledged expert and author in foraging for wild food, usually finds between 50 to 75 species of mushrooms on his forays. However, in 2022, he catalogued 90 species over just 2 days. This exceptional variety was attributed to the diverse habitats encountered, including wood chip, rare "poor" acid grassland, pines, birch, oak, and disturbed environments, each with its unique associated fungi. Some of these species were quite rare.
Wright's forays often take place in the New Forest, Dorset, Devon, Hampshire, and elsewhere. He has written three books on foraging and one on home brewing for the River Cottage Handbook series. Wright also authored a book on the joy of Latin names, titled "The Naming of the Shrew," and another on the Natural History of the Hedgerow.
Wright's expertise in mushroom hunting is well-known, and he has been featured in publications like the Bournemouth local paper, The Times, The Guardian, The Daily Mail, and The Telegraph. He is also dedicated to conservation efforts, having encouraged the Nature Conservancy Council to purchase and preserve 200 acres of land rich in fungi in west Dorset.
Mushroom hunting is a passionate pursuit for Wright, who values the thrill of the hunt over consumption. He notes that each mushroom has a distinctive smell, ranging from carrots and aniseed to less appealing scents like dog waste and nitric acid. The most beautiful mushroom in the world, according to Wright, is the Volvariella bombycina, with its cocoon-like appearance and furry top resembling a young white rabbit.
Mushroom Cookies: Do They Work?
You may want to see also
Wright has written three books on foraging and one on home brewing
John Wright is an expert forager and mycologist who has turned his hobby of fungus hunting into a full-time job. Wright has written three books on foraging and one on home brewing, with another book on natural history. His books are a part of the River Cottage Handbook series.
The first of the series, River Cottage Hedgerow Handbook, covers the basics of foraging in the British countryside, including tips on identifying, collecting, and preparing wild food. It also includes relevant UK laws and conservation notes. The second book in the series, which focuses on the seashore, reveals the culinary potential of the coast and provides tips on cooking foraged food. The third book, which is in the works, will focus on fungi.
Wright's book on home brewing, titled "Booze", is a lighthearted take on the joys of making your own beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages. He also has a blog in The Guardian on the subject.
Wright has been foraging for food all his life, from blackberry picking and cockle hunting to hunting wild mushrooms and collecting flying ants. He has been leading foraging events since 1992 and has also made appearances on TV and radio. He is an advocate for conservation and believes that foraging, when done right, is not damaging to the natural world.
Mushrooms: Constipation Culprits or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Wright's handbook includes conservation notes, practical tips, and identification techniques
Wright's handbook includes a plethora of information on mushroom conservation, practical tips, and identification techniques. The handbook provides an in-depth exploration of the various techniques used to preserve mushrooms and extend their shelf life.
One of the key conservation techniques highlighted by Wright is drying. Drying mushrooms is an effective method to prolong their use beyond their fresh state. This process can be achieved by sun-drying or using a dehydrator at controlled temperatures. The handbook also emphasizes the importance of proper storage conditions, such as specific temperatures and relative humidity levels, to maintain the quality of different mushroom varieties.
In terms of practical tips, Wright offers guidance on foraging and picking mushrooms. He emphasizes the importance of obtaining permission and being aware of local policies, such as the former fungus picking 'ban' in the New Forest. Additionally, Wright provides insights into the identification of mushrooms, ensuring readers can distinguish between edible and non-edible varieties.
The handbook also delves into the benefits of combining traditional and emerging conservation techniques. By utilizing methods like cooling, UV irradiation, and active edible coatings, it is possible to control the growth of microorganisms, maintain enzymatic activity, and enhance the production of vitamin D in mushrooms. This combination of techniques addresses the drawbacks associated with traditional preservation methods, such as potential toxicity, effects on taste, high costs, and energy consumption.
Furthermore, Wright provides practical advice on preparing and storing mushrooms for future use. This includes instructions on cleaning, cutting, and cooking mushrooms before freezing them, ensuring they retain their quality and nutritional value. Overall, Wright's handbook offers a comprehensive guide to mushroom conservation, providing readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, preserve, and utilize mushrooms effectively.
Mushrooms: Complex Life Forms Explained
You may want to see also
Wright's handbook also includes 30 simple mushroom recipes from the River Cottage team
John Wright is a mycologist, forager, and author of the *River Cottage Handbook: Mushrooms*. The handbook is a comprehensive guide to foraging for mushrooms, covering topics such as relevant UK laws, conservation notes, practical tips, and identification techniques. It covers 72 species of mushrooms commonly found in Britain's forests and clearings, including edible varieties like the Chanterelle, Cep, Velvet Shank, Horn of Plenty, Amethyst Deceiver, Giant Puffball, and Chicken in the Woods, as well as poisonous types like the Sickener, Death Cap, and Destroying Angel.
Wright's handbook also delves into the culinary aspects of mushrooms, featuring more than 30 simple and delicious mushroom recipes developed by the River Cottage team. The recipes showcase the versatility of mushrooms and provide inspiration for home cooks.
One reviewer mentions successfully identifying and cooking Velvet Shank mushrooms after consulting the guide, serving them with garlic butter and toast. The book also includes recipes for other edible fungi, such as the Penny Bun, Saffron Milkcap, Fairy Ring Champignon, edible Boletes, and Field Mushrooms.
The River Cottage Mushroom Handbook is part of a series of handbooks by Wright, who is an acknowledged expert in foraging for wild food. His engaging writing style and the book's practical information, colourful photographs, line drawings, and user-friendly key make it a valuable resource for both amateur and experienced foragers.
The handbook is an indispensable guide for anyone interested in mushroom foraging and cooking, providing not only essential knowledge for safe mushroom identification but also a rich collection of recipes to enjoy the fruits of their foraging adventures.
The Ultimate Mushroom Spaghetti Guide
You may want to see also
