From Back to the Roots website:
"In a college class, we learned that mushrooms could grow on recycled coffee grounds. After watching hours of how-to videos and turning our fraternity kitchen into a big science experiment, we eventually decided to give up our corporate job offers to instead become full-time mushroom farmers. What started as curiosity about urban farming has turned into a passion for “undoing food” and reconnecting families to it through fun, delicious and sustainable “ready to grow” and “ready to eat” products.
What type of mushroom does the Mushroom Mini Farm grow?
Our mushroom mini farm grows gourmet Pearl Oyster mushrooms. They’re commonly found in Europe and Asia and are used increasingly in a variety of cuisines for their velvety texture, smooth taste, and dense nutrient content.
What is the Mushroom Mini Farm growing on? Is it eco-friendly?
The Mushroom Mini Farm is made from all organic recycled waste including corn cob and saw dust.
What is the white layer covering the mini farm?
The white layer is mycelium! It’s similar to the “roots” of the mushrooms (if mushrooms had roots).
What do Oyster mushrooms taste like?
Oyster mushrooms have a mild flavor that is very versatile when it comes to the food they complement. They have a delicate, velvety texture that pairs well in pastas, skewers, soups, salads, and anything else you like to put mushrooms in! They taste amazing, especially when they’re so fresh, and can be eaten raw or cooked. Chef Alice Waters of acclaimed Berkeley restaurant Chez Panisse has raved about their authentic, nutty, flavor. See what she has to say!
What are the health benefits of eating oyster mushrooms?
Oyster mushrooms are extremely healthy and rich, given that one-third of their dry weight is protein. They contain amino acids and enzymes that have been shown to boost the immune system and are rich in vitamin C, vitamin B complex, and most of the mineral salts required by the human body. Calcium, phosphorous and iron content in oyster mushrooms are double the amount found in most meats. They are also known to lower cholesterol, boost the immune system, and may even inhibit tumor growth."
If their story doesn't sound like enough of a reason to start growing mushrooms, then you need to listen to Paul Stamets "6 Ways Mushrooms Can Save The World" Ted Talk.
Mushrooms taste good, are good for you and they may even help save us from some of the disasters looming out there in the world that could alter our life. Well that sounds a little strong, anyone for a fried mushroom?