Primutka with dry mushrooms

Even though not endemic to Russia, certain species of mushrooms, including the salty milkcaps and red pine mushrooms, are traditionally considered a national treasure. There are many mushroom varieties in central Russia, including penny buns and so on. In late summer and autumn, when the weather is warm and humid, the markets are overflowing with penny buns, aspen mushrooms, brown cap boletuses and chanterelles. Less noble varieties, such as Russula, Lactarius and Paxillus, are usually foraged by aficionado mushroom pickers.The mushroom season marries dining in to dining out in the selection of top picks that include fried potatoes with mushrooms, mushroom soups and pies.