Mousam Valley Mushrooms in Springvale, Maine | Types of Mushrooms 101

How many types of mushrooms can you name? Family founded, owned, and operated, Mousam Valley Mushrooms is housed in a converted dairy barn in Springvale, Maine. Inside, it’s mushroom magic, as 10 varieties of delectable mushrooms are nurtured from start to finish by siblings Emily and Robert Sharood; their father, John; and a team of dedicated and knowledgeable fungi enthusiasts.

Mushroom farming is a precise and complicated process. Each variety of fungus requires temperature and climate-controlled environments specific to its needs. The mushrooms are grown in blocks of straw and wood chips blended together to mimic a naturally decaying log; after careful monitoring and “blooming” they are harvested at the peak of freshness. They are then packed and shipped to stores that same day.

Priced comparably with many other mushrooms on the market, Mousam Valley’s mushrooms are fresh and sustainably grown, and last seven to 10 days longer than imported mushrooms. They’re also delicious, nutritious, and 100 percent organic. Wondering about the types of mushrooms available from Mousam Valley? Here’s a rundown:

MOUSAM VALLEY | TYPES OF MUSHROOMS

OYSTER MUSHROOMS

Italian oysters are the classic oyster mushroom. These gray-blue fungi boast a meaty texture.

• Mild, slightly sweet flavor
• Earthy aroma
• Firm texture

Pink oysters are a tropical species that are naturally all pink, which deepens to a salmon color when cooked.

• Savory taste
• Woodsy aroma
• Medium-firm texture

Butter oysters have yellow caps and white stems. It’s been said their aroma is similar to that of an aged red wine.

• Mild, buttery flavor
• Fruity aroma
• Crunchy texture

Katahdin oysters are Mousam Valley’s native Maine strain. These cream-colored mushrooms are considered flavor enhancers.

• Umami taste
• Woodsy aroma
• Firm texture

MORE MUSHROOMS

Cinnamon caps, also known as brick tops, form in clusters. The caps are speckled with white flakes.

• Full, earthy flavor
• Robust aroma
• Crunchy-firm texture

Velvet Pioppino mushrooms, also known as black poplar mushrooms, have dark brown caps on long cream-colored stems.

• Peppery, “foresty” flavor
• Robust aroma
• Firm texture

Maitake mushrooms, also known as hen of the woods, have frondlike growths that resemble chicken feathers.

• Umami taste
• Earthy aroma
• Firm texture

Lion’s mane is known to some fans as the “smart mushroom,” as it’s said that eating this fungus can be good for cognitive function.

• Lobster/scallop flavor
• Slightly sweet aroma

King oysters, also known as king trumpets, have a thick, meaty texture that stands up even to grilling on a barbecue.

• Mild abalone flavor
• Woodsy aroma
• Firm texture

Shiitake mushrooms range in color from amber to dark brown and have a markedly savory taste.

• Umami taste
• Smoky aroma
• Meaty texture

Which types of mushrooms are your favorite? For more information on Mousam Valley Mushrooms, go to mousamvalleymushrooms.com.