Greetings to all the passionate adventurers out there! This is Gunnther Hamilton, the founding partner at KLEAR Magic. Today, I'm thrilled to share a slice of my recent coastal escapade, one that intertwines the majestic beauty of Lighthouse Field State Beach in Santa Cruz with the magic of our very own homegrown blue oyster mushrooms.
Jessie, my significant other, and I had this idea simmering for some time: a rejuvenating day by the sea, complete with our loyal canine companion, Luna. As we drove up to the beach, the salty tang of the air set the tone for a day of relaxation and culinary adventures.
Now, here's where the magic comes into play. At KLEAR Magic, we've recently launched a new grow bag, and I've had the pleasure of experimenting with it firsthand. Alongside our new medium, we've also introduced mushroom spores sourced from "Premium Spores," an exceptional brand known for their dedication to gourmet mushroom cultivation. Our combined efforts resulted in the successful growth of some of the most delightful blue oyster mushrooms I've ever tasted.
Our spot on the beach, with the iconic lighthouse serving as the backdrop, was an ideal setting to showcase our homegrown produce. As Luna dashed about, chasing seagulls and waves, Jessie and I started prepping for our bonfire feast.
Beach Bonfire Blue Oyster Mushroom Skewers:
Ingredients:
- 500g KLEAR Magic homegrown blue oyster mushrooms, cleaned and halved or kept whole if small
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares
- 1 zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, pre-soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Beach Bonfire Blue Oyster Mushroom Skewers: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation:
Start by ensuring all your ingredients are ready and within reach. This includes having your mushrooms cleaned and either halved or kept whole (if they're small), peppers cut, zucchini sliced, and onion chunked.
Soak Skewers:
If you haven’t already, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent them from burning when placed over the bonfire.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, finely chopped thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are well-incorporated.
- Add the blue oyster mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion chunks into the bowl with the marinade.
- Gently toss the vegetables in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Assemble the Skewers:
- Start skewering the marinated vegetables and mushrooms onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers.
- You can create a pattern if you like, for example: a piece of mushroom, then red bell pepper, followed by zucchini, green bell pepper, and a chunk of red onion. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full. Ensure to leave some space at the bottom for holding.
Light the Bonfire (See Safety Warming):
- Safely ignite your beach bonfire, ensuring it’s in a permitted area and under controlled conditions.
Grill the Skewers:
- Once the bonfire is ready and has a good number of medium flames and embers, place a grill grate over it (if you have one).
- Lay the skewers on the grill, ensuring they're not directly over large flames to avoid burning.
- Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes or until the mushrooms have a nice golden color and the vegetables are tender but slightly crisp.
- Rotate the skewers occasionally for even grilling.
Serve:
- Once grilled to perfection, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving tray.
- Enjoy your Beach Bonfire Blue Oyster Mushroom Skewers with your favorite dipping sauce or as they are, soaking in the ambiance of the beach and the crackling bonfire!
Safety Warming - Remember to always be cautious when working with an open fire, and make sure to extinguish your bonfire properly after use to ensure safety.
California Beach Bonfire Safety Notice:
Before you dive into this delicious recipe, it's crucial to prioritize safety and respect for our beautiful California beaches.
Remember:
Check Fire Safety Conditions: Always check the current fire conditions and regulations in your area. During dry seasons or windy conditions, open fires may be prohibited due to increased fire risk.
Know Your Beach's Rules: Not all beaches in California permit bonfires. Make sure you're at a designated beach that allows fires and use designated fire rings or pits if provided.
Safety First:
Never leave your fire unattended. Make sure you're equipped with a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby.
Put The Fire Out Properly: When you're done, douse the fire with water, not sand. Ensure the embers are completely out and cold to the touch before leaving the area.
The evening was perfect. As we placed the skewers over the bonfire, the smell of the grilling mushrooms combined with the sea breeze was intoxicating. The taste was unparalleled: the earthiness of the blue oyster mushrooms, coupled with the smoky bonfire essence, was an explosion of flavors.
As the stars began to emerge and the sounds of the ocean accompanied our meal, it was evident that this day was more than just a beach outing—it was a testament to the potential of our KLEAR Magic products. Luna, curled up next to the fire, would occasionally gaze up, perhaps hoping for a mushroomy treat to drop her way.
As the night drew to a close, and the last flames of the bonfire danced in the darkness, Jessie and I reflected on the day. The combination of nature's beauty, our culinary delights, and the successful growth of our blue oyster mushrooms made for an unforgettable experience.
In closing, to all the adventurous souls out there, remember that with the right ingredients, tools, and a dash of magic from KLEAR Magic, every journey can turn into a story worth telling. Until next time, explore, savor, and cherish every moment.
Safe travels!