Fun with Fungus: Jew's Ear

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Jew's ear (Auricularia auricula-judae) is reddish-brown and resembles a human ear in the way that it curls up in a cup shape. When there is enough moisture, they are soft and gelatinous but dries hard and dark when there is not. They are 2-8 cm wide and 5 mm thick.

Jew's ear can be found all year round as they can withstand freezing temperatures. New growth will appear in January and can be frozen solid and thawed out and still be fine.

The habitat of this fungus is mainly living or dead elder trees, but can also be found on beech and sycamore. The common name is derived from 'Judas's ear' referring to Judas Iscariot who hanged himself on an elder tree after he betrayed Jesus Christ.
Good news, Jew's ear can be eaten! It's not easily fried though, so soups and stews are recommended.

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