Though mushroom foragers may be out of luck as snow covers the treasures they seek, the Boston Organics Community need search no farther than their green boxes. This week we will be delivering delectable fungi from Mousam Valley Mushrooms of Springvale, Maine. The family-operated farm grows certified organic mushrooms in its converted historic dairy barn, where the farmers are able to control the mushrooms’ environment to ensure the ideal growing conditions. The mushrooms are cultivated on sustainably sourced Maine hardwood and straw.
The mushrooms included in boxes this week will be a medley of oyster mushrooms, which may include Italian, Pink, Butter or Katahdin Oyster mushroom varieties. Oyster mushrooms in general grow in layered clusters, but these four varieties have different flavors, textures and colors. Katahdin oysters are a native Maine strain of mushroom, with a creamy color and savory flavor. The distinctive pink color of the eponymous mushrooms changes to orange-brown when the mushrooms are cooked, while the name butter oyster refers to both the color and flavor of this fungus, though it does have more of a fruity smell. To add to the rainbow assortment, Italian Oysters are blue-grey with a mild earthy flavor.
Simply sautéing oyster mushrooms in a little butter or oil will bring out their flavors. For a special treat, fry up a batch of Crispy Oyster Mushrooms. A delicious snack everyone will enjoy!
Dwight Miller and Son Orchards
Apples |
Oyster Mushrooms |
All of the fruits and vegetables we deliver are grown without synthetic pesticides and are USDA certified organic. Interested in receiving produce that's both organic and locally sourced all year round? Check out our Local Dogma Box.
Similar to a CSA or farm share, our Local Dogma Box is filled with the best organic produce from local and regional farms and brought right to your door each week. It's the easiest way to eat like a locavore!