Due to its frilly frond–like growths resembling the fluffed feathers of a chicken, the intriguing maitake mushroom is affectionately known by fungi aficionados as the "hen of the woods." It's most commonly found growing wild in the Northeast and Mid–Atlantic states, particularly favoring the base of oak trees where a single bloom can grow to weigh anywhere between 5–100 pounds. Boasting a deeply rich umami flavor, maitake is great grilled, roasted, or sautéed with oil, salt, and pepper, and is done when crisp around the edges but tender and meaty inside. We love it on pizza or in pasta dishes.