When it comes to a delicious food that packs a big nutritional punch, mushrooms are a great addition to any meal. These humble fungi come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and tastes. They also offer a load of health benefits, from boosting your immune system to keeping your heart healthy. Mushrooms are as good for you as they are tasty.
Sure, there has been a surge of interest in specialty ‘shrooms – like Shiitake and Oyster – but let’s not forget the old faithful of the mushroom world: the versatile white mushroom.
This all-purpose fungus might not be as exotic as its gourmet cousins, but it holds its own in both taste and health benefits. It’s a prime source of essential nutrients like selenium, potassium, and even protein. Plus, its mild flavor and meaty texture make it a culinary chameleon, working well in everything from crisp salads to hearty stews. And who can resist a classic white mushroom sautéed in a touch of garlic and butter?
At Vince’s, we get our white mushrooms from a longtime local grower. Sharon Mushroom Farms has been in the hands of Laxman Marsonia since he purchased the operation in 1985. Back then it was an eight-room facility, but has since grown to 44 rooms, with another 36 in Montreal.
These growing rooms are long sheds with several tiers of beds, along with carefully-monitored temperature and humidity. As such, they grow white mushrooms year-round.
This is not a small operation, as 20 rooms are harvested each week on a four-week cycle. That equates to approximately 20,000 pounds of mushrooms per day – just from the Sharon location!
Despite being 84 years old, Laxman gives no indication of retiring anytime soon. He loves his work, and seems to be following the wise words of Confucius, who once said: “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
— Neil
