New Local Gourmet Mushrooms from FirstLite Farms!
Local to Bloomington, Indiana, FirstLite Farms is dedicated to growing high-quality, gourmet mushrooms. Owned and operated by Nick Parsch, a passionate grower and active member of the local farming community, the local farm is dedicated to providing responsibly grown ingredients to support healthy living and strengthen the local food system.
You can now find FirstLite Farms’ fresh White Beech, Maitake (Hen of the Woods), Chestnut, & Shiitake Mushrooms at both of our stores – our East Store also carries their Black Pearl Oyster Mushrooms!
White Beech
Flavor: Mild, slightly nutty, subtly sweet
How to eat them:
Trim the base and separate the stems.
Best sautéed in butter or olive oil until lightly golden.
Add to stir-fries, ramen, pasta, or omelets.
Roast whole clusters for a slightly crispy texture.
Great in soups — they hold their shape nicely.
Tip: Cook them thoroughly; raw beech mushrooms can taste slightly bitter
Chestnut
Flavor: Nutty, slightly peppery
How to eat them:
Leave small ones whole; halve larger ones.
Excellent roasted or sautéed with garlic and thyme.
Add to pizzas, flatbreads, or creamy sauces.
Pair beautifully with eggs and breakfast dishes.
Tip: They retain a pleasant firmness even after cooking.
Caution! Chestnut mushrooms are high in chitin. May cause gastrointestinal discomfort without thorough cooking.
Maitake (Hen of the Woods)
Flavor: Rich, earthy, savory
How to eat them:
Tear into bite-size pieces rather than slicing.
Roast at high heat (425°F) with olive oil and salt for crispy edges.
Sauté and serve over steak, chicken, or polenta.
Add to risotto or creamy pasta dishes.
Tip: High heat brings out their deep umami flavor and crispy texture.
Shiitake
Flavor: Meaty, smoky, umami-rich
How to eat them:
Remove tough stems (great for stock).
Slice caps and sauté for tacos, grain bowls, or fried rice.
Add to soups, broths, and Asian-inspired dishes.
Marinate and grill for a “meaty” vegetarian option.
Tip: Dry sauté first (no oil) to release moisture, then add oil for better browning.
