This cute little mushroom is a member of the genus Calvatia, possibly Calvatia fragilis or craniiformis (if anyone knows the exact species, I’d love to hear from you!).
Mushrooms in this genus are known as “Puffballs” because when they’re ripe, their “shell” splits and the inside releases the spore in the form of a powder. When young and the inside is still white and firm (as in the photo, it has a fluffy texture similar to bread), most species in this genus are edible.
When I saw this mushroom for the first time I didn’t really understand what it was, much less thought it was edible. I was pleasantly surprised when I found out!
We tried it sautéed in a little oil, seasoned with salt, black pepper and oregano, and it was very tasty. It tasted a bit like fried eggs and had a firm texture, which we always appreciate. It’s a shame we only found one. Another day, a few weeks later, we found another one, but it was also alone.
From what I’ve researched, it usually grows in the Spring and Summer. Too bad that we find them so rarely around here.
📸 Pictures made in São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul (Serra Gaúcha, South of Brazil).
⚠ Remember to never eat wild mushrooms without proper identification.