Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) is a thin, fan-shaped mushroom with striped bands of colour that look like a turkey's tail feathers. It grows on dead wood and is too tough and leathery to eat whole, which is why it's traditionally simmered as a tea or dried and milled into powder. Turkey tail mushroom powder has an earthy, slightly bitter taste, so it works best in drinks and dishes with plenty of other flavour. Here's how to use it.
The quick answer
The easiest way to use turkey tail mushroom powder is to stir a small amount into a hot drink, such as tea, coffee, chai or hot chocolate, or blend it into a smoothie. Start with a little and follow the serving suggestion on your pack.
1. Classic turkey tail tea
Stir the powder into a mug of just-boiled water and leave it to steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Add a slice of fresh ginger, a squeeze of lemon and a teaspoon of honey. For a stronger brew, simmer it gently in a small pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then strain through a fine sieve.
2. Turkey tail smoothie bowl
You'll need: 1 frozen banana, a cup of mixed berries, a splash of milk, turkey tail powder, and toppings such as granola, seeds and sliced fruit. Blend the banana, berries, milk and powder until thick, pour into a bowl and add your toppings.
3. Turkey tail chai latte
Brew a strong chai tea, then whisk in warm milk, turkey tail powder and a little honey or maple syrup. The warming spices in chai complement the earthy flavour well.
4. Mushroom hot chocolate
Whisk cacao powder, turkey tail powder and a sweetener into warm milk until smooth. Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla for extra depth.
5. Savoury mushroom broth
Stir turkey tail powder into a pan of vegetable or chicken stock with garlic, ginger and a splash of soy sauce or miso. Simmer for a few minutes and use as a sipping broth or a base for noodle soups.
6. Cacao bliss balls
Blitz oats, dates, cacao powder, nut butter and a little turkey tail powder in a food processor. Roll into balls and chill for an easy snack.
Tips for cooking with turkey tail powder
- Mix the powder with a splash of liquid first to avoid lumps.
- Strong flavours such as cacao, coffee, ginger and chai work best alongside it.
- Add it towards the end when making soups and sauces.
How to store it
Keep the pouch sealed in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, and use a dry spoon each time.
Before you start
Turkey tail powder is sold as a food ingredient. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, have a health condition or have ever reacted to mushrooms, speak to a healthcare professional before adding it to your diet.
Shop our Organic Turkey Tail Mushroom Powder, or browse all our mushroom powders.
