True Amanita caesarea or Caesar’s mushrooms, are from Italy. There are two American cousins, Amanita hemibapha and Amanita jacksonii that are so similar they can only be identified under a microscope. The genus Amanita is better known for its poisonous members, of which include both hallucinogenic and toxic mushrooms.

Caesar’s mushrooms have a smooth deep orange-red skin that is firms and somewhat elastic; it holds its shape when cut. The underbelly of the cap is lined with yellow gills. The stems are often encapsulated with the remnants of the universal veil called the volva, which is a white cup-shaped piece that protects the developing gills. When they are young, the volva hugs the small cap and the mushroom resembles an egg, thus earning it the nickname “ovoli”. The flavor and fragrance are similar to hazelnuts or chestnuts, which may have to do with their growing environment. These Italian mushrooms will continue to develop after harvested and they should be eaten soon after purchase.

Serving Ideas

In Tuscany, Caesar’s or Ovoli mushrooms are eaten raw when freshly harvested. Another Italian traditional dish is with thinly sliced Caesar’s mushrooms spread out on a platter and dressed with some nice olive oil and white wine vinegar garnished with some chopped garlic and parsley. Let sit and marinate for half an hour. Salads are a popular vehicle for the rare Caesar’s mushrooms; however, they can be sautéed and added to many different dishes. Brush the cap with olive oil and grill for a few minutes on each side; serve with roasted garlic on toasted thick-cut bread drizzled with oil.

Geography/History

Caesar’s mushrooms are native to and are only found in Italy. These orange-red capped mushrooms have been prized since ancient Roman times by the Caesars, which is what inspired the Latin name ‘caesarea’. The Romans called it “the king’s mushroom” and is commonly found in the oak and chestnut woods in Italy and the chestnut and pinewoods of northern Spain.

Seasons/Availability

Caesar’s mushrooms are available in the early summer through the fall.