Lactarius volemus: the July mushroom worth picking before saffron milkcaps appear

The Lactarius volemus, known among mushroom pickers as "krówka" (little cow) or "mleczarka," appears in Polish forests as early as July — several weeks before the peak saffron milkcap season. Despite being underrated, it is considered just as tasty as the classic rydz. July is a good time to forage before the rush of autumn mushroom hunters begins.