Le Cèpe
" Cep "
is a gascon word which comes from the
latin word meaning "trunk" -- a word
which also signifies something strong
and durable -- a good synonym for the
foot of this giant mushroom.
In this region of the
Charente the climate - the sun
and the moisture and the vast areas of
forest, the cèpe is completely at home.
And yet -- it remains a magical mystery
to man. Only a couple of hours is needed
for this mushroom to grow to extreme
proportions
This mystery which surrounds this
amazing fungus adds to its magic. -- For
example, it is said that no one has
ever, ever been able to surprise one of
these giants of the forest in the
silence of the middle of the night to
observe its rapid growth. Many have
tried, but in vain. In the same empty
spot where they had sat watching during
the night, there would appear in the
morning a giant mushroom, of up to 30cm
in diameter and up to 1 metre in
circumference! Truly a mystery! Pure
magic!
The "King of Mushrooms" grows
between August and November, depending
on the depth of the forest and the rain
fall.
The best way to enjoy the cèpes, is in
an omelette and made with duck fat. And
if you wonder about the richness of this
dish, it is a dish enjoyed by the French
at either lunch time or at the evening
meal -- remember: the French are not
into eating eggs
at breakfast, so an omelette is most
definitely for later in the day!