”Garīkas” – Shiitake Mushroom Farm

Garīkas is the first farm in Latvia to start cultivating shiitake mushrooms, and it continues this tradition to this day. As the owner Andris Vjaksa and his family note, growing shiitake mushrooms is a delicate and unique process, unlike any other type of agriculture.

Shiitake mushrooms are cultivated on wooden logs, into which wooden dowels are inserted. The dowels are filled with mushroom mycelium, sealed with a paraffin mixture, and the logs are given a two-year incubation period. To create the optimal conditions for growth, the logs are soaked to initiate the production process. Mushrooms grown on logs are up to eight times more nutritious and flavorful than those grown on standard substrates.

Shiitake mushrooms are highly prized worldwide as a culinary delicacy, thanks to their rich nutrients and distinctive creamy, nutty flavor.

The hosts warmly welcome visitors, showing the farm area where black alder logs, at various stages of mushroom growth, are arranged. Guests also learn about the nutritional and health benefits of shiitake mushrooms.

After the tour, visitors can taste the mushrooms or enjoy a hearty homemade meal that highlights the delicate flavors of shiitake. For those wishing to cook at home, the farm offers dried or fresh shiitake mushrooms, mushroom blends for butter, mushroom powder, and even mycelium for those inspired to try cultivating these valuable mushrooms themselves.

Guests wishing to stay longer are invited to spend the night at the Garīkas Guesthouse.