Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the questions we get asked every weekend at the market. Straight answers, no fluff.

What mushrooms do you have right now?

Usually fresh Lion’s Mane and Oyster mushrooms — the good stuff, picked fresh. We also bring powders, dehydrated, seasonings, one-pot meals, grow kits, and Rise & Root Brew. Depends on the day and what’s fruiting. Ask us at the booth or check the shop.

How do I cook Lion’s Mane? Oysters?

Dry fry them first. Get them in a hot pan with nothing in it — no oil, no butter — so the moisture cooks out and they get a real sear and better texture. Once they’re looking good and the pan is dry again, then add your butter or oil, garlic, salt, whatever you like. Lion’s Mane is mild and a little nutty; it holds up like crab or scallops when you do it right. Oysters are meatier — slice them and same deal, or toss into soups, stir-fries, or one of our meal mixes. Cooking brings out the flavor. Grab a recipe card at market or just ask us.

Are these organic? Any chemicals?

We grow clean — no chemicals, no spray, no nonsense. Small farm, real food. We’re not chasing certifications that cost more than they help a place like ours, but if you ask at the booth we’ll tell you exactly how we grow.

How fresh are they? When were they picked?

As fresh as it gets. We harvest and get them to market or the farm the same day or next. That’s why we don’t ship fresh — it loses the point.

Can I freeze them?

You can, but fresh is better. If you freeze, cook them first (sauté or blanch) then freeze. They get watery otherwise. Paper bag in the fridge for a few days is the usual move.

Do you take EBT, Double Up, or Senior Project Fresh?

Yes at a lot of the markets. It varies by market, so check with us or the market when you come. Grandville and others usually do. Ask at the booth — we’ll point you the right way.

Where are you this week / can I pick up at the farm?

Markets change with the season. Check our posts or just ask. Farm pickup is free every day 9 AM–7 PM at 509 High St SW, Grand Rapids. $5 delivery to 49503, and we go about 12 miles out. Fresh stays local.

What’s the difference between Lion’s Mane and Oyster?

Lion’s Mane is the soft, white, pom-pom looking one. Mild, almost seafood-like when cooked. Oysters are the fan or cluster ones — more savory and meaty. Both are good. Try both if you’ve never had either.

How do the grow kits work? Are they hard?

Not hard. You mist, keep it somewhere not too hot or cold, and watch it fruit. Name it if you want. People get mushrooms out of them all the time. Grab one and we’ll walk you through it at the booth.

Why don’t you ship fresh mushrooms?

Because they wouldn’t be fresh by the time they got there. We grow them, harvest them, and get them to you local. Powders, dehydrated, meals, and brew can ship.

What’s Rise & Root Brew?

Our mushroom brew — coffee alternative made with our own stuff. People who want the mushroom benefits without the coffee buzz dig it. Check the shop for what’s in stock.

How long do they last?

A couple days in the fridge is normal. We package them in plastic containers with slot vents so air can get through. Dried-out mushrooms are fine — that’s not a problem. Soggy or slimy mushrooms are the bad ones. If they’re sitting in the fridge for a couple days, turn them over every once in a while so they don’t sit in moisture. You can also put them in a paper bag if you want. Use them while they’re still good.

Still got a question? Come find us at market or the farm. We like talking mushrooms.

Stay Funky, Eat Fungi!
— Gordie and Paul