My Chestnut mushrooms are small to medium-sized and have a rounded cap with a short, blunt stem. Its smooth cap varies from light to dark brown and is firm and spongy. Under the cap are small brown gills, but most of these are hidden because the cap is not fully opened when harvested at the chestnut stage. The short white stalk is also edible, dense, thick and smooth with a slightly rubbery texture. My Chestnut mushrooms are mild and slightly earthy with a meaty texture.