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(Nameko, Namerako, Slime Pholiota, Viscis mushroom)
The Nameko is one of the most popular cultivated mushrooms in Japan (apart from the Shii-take and Enoki). The Dutch name bundelzwam ("cluster mushroom") refers to the way in which it grows: in a cluster. Originally the Nameko is a Japanese mushroom. Nowadays the Nameko is also cultivated on a small scale in the Netherlands and in Belgium.
The Nameko has a clear preference for beech wood. The Nameko is characterised by its small reddish brown cap and thin light-brown stem which is 5 to 8 cm long. The cap which is ± 1 - 2 centimetres large is a little sticky (which disappears when preparing it). The flesh has a yellowish colour.
The Nameko is a tasty, crisp, mushroom and very suitable for soups or stews. It has a rather strong smell, reminiscent of cashew nuts. Due to its small size this mushroom looks very representative on a plate, The Nameko sometimes smells of fish which may lead to the thought that it is no longer fresh. The mushrooms cannot be kept long and are best processed immediately after purchase.
