This Weeks Ramblings
As I walk away from the mushroom stand I could swear I could hear stands of "Don't Fear The Reaper" were softly, quietly, floating through farmer's market. Are mushrooms a cult? That's what I could hear the blue oysters in the bag I was carrying. Okay, if you don't get that you probably think I'm out of my skull and you need to get you some classic SNL.
Earlier this summer I discovered the mushroom stand at our local farmer's market. You know this already. You also know that I have now discovered things I did not know even existed (seriously, fungi you can pet?). Don't get me wrong, I know what mushrooms are (I'm talking about the ones that go in salads and in risotto not the ones that make everything groovy man), but I'll admit I really was only familiar with the likes of white button, shiitake, and portobellos. I was so wrong.
Last week I made the lion's mane crab-less crab cakes. This week I discovered blue oyster mushrooms - and believe me they are so good with more cow bell. Okay, that's the last Blue Oyster Cult joke, I promise.
These mushrooms are pretty amazing. In addition to tasting amazing they are full of protein, amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins B & D, and minerals likes iron and potassium. They have a nice anise flavor (think basil or fennel) and are slightly sweet (kind of like lobster or crab but not as much as the lion's mane). They are best when sauteed. I haven't tried them raw, but I don't imagine them being very good that way. Also, depending on how large they are, the stems can be tough, so you may or may not want to cook them.
I know this is probably old news to everyone out there that is vegetarian, vegan, or simply better educated about such things than I am. To me though it's pretty eye opening. I'm really excited about the great possibilities and hopefully you'll be along with me for the trip.
Now Go, Go Godzilla out and find some of these mushrooms - sorry I couldn't resist, I know that was bad but I refuse to apologize.
