Western giant puffball
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The western giant puffball is a puffball mushroom growing in the western area of the United States where most giant puffballs (calvatia gigantea) do not grow. In general western giant puffballs grow on the west of the rockies and giant puffballs grow on the east side of the rockies. Like its close relative, the giant puffball, it grows on composted soil such as in meadows, fields, and forests. They can also grow as large as the giant puffball of the east. They can be prepared in the same ways as the giant puffballs and have the same flavor and texture. Once again the western giant puffball is seasoned the same way as the giant puffball. They do not wash well so it is best to trim most of the dirt off. Washing with water makes it too soggy to saute. It is good steamed, sauteed, or simmered like other mushrooms. The western giant puffball, like the giant puffball, does not dehydrate well so freeze it. To prevent the puffball from becoming mush after melting you must cook it first. After it thaws cook it again. With the texture of marshmallows it is a treat similar to the giant puffball. Like many other food not all of them taste the same so if you do not like them the first time you try it then try it again some other time (a property shared with many puffballs.)
Unlike giant puffballs which are smooth, the western giant puffball is covered with large pointed warts.
