Puffballs

Fall is the time of year to be surprised by puffball mushrooms! We love coming across these gigantic gifts of the Earth in our backyard or on hikes in the woods.

Puffball mushrooms are one of the easiest to identify because of their size and their uniqueness. Look for large, white globes that are fully attached to the ground beneath. My stronger childhood memory is waiting a month after the puffballs were white - they darken and fill with spores that are excellent to stomp on and release!

Unlike many mushrooms, puffballs (in their white form) are safe to eat! We like them best peeled, cut into large cubes and then fried with some oil and onions. Although, there is a puffball pizza crust that is calling my name…

After your mushroom hunt, search out the book Let’s Go Explore by Mimochai. It’s a beautiful picture book that focuses on the wonder of discovery as you step outside and start each day as a new beginning.