Dried Porcini Mushrooms - Merchant Gourmet - 30g

This comforting soup is made with dried mushrooms, onion, and a bit of dairy-free cream. Enjoy it for lunch with a slice of crusty bread.

This creamy mushroom risotto is made with organic arborio rice, dried mushrooms, onion and aromatic thyme.

Comforting soup the entire family will love!

Mushrooms have stepped well beyond the dinner plate. Once reserved for stir-fries and soups, certain mushrooms are now dried and ground into fine powders that people stir into coffee, smoothies and porridge. Search interest has climbed, wellness brands have taken notice, and mushroom powders have quietly become one of the most talked-about additions to the modern store cupboard. So what lies behind the rise, which types are worth knowing, and how do you actually use them? Here is a clear guide. What are mushroom powders? Mushroom powders are made by drying particular mushrooms and grinding them into a fine, easy-to-use powder. These are not the button mushrooms from your Sunday fry-up. They belong to a group often called functional or adaptogenic mushrooms, which have a long history of use in traditional wellness practices, particularly across Asia. The appeal is convenience. Rather than sourcing and preparing the mushrooms themselves, you get a concentrated powder that blends straight into food and drink, with an earthy, savoury flavour that mixes surprisingly well into coffee and cocoa. Why the sudden popularity? A few things have come together to fuel the trend. Interest in gut health, natural energy and general wellbeing has grown, and people are increasingly looking for plant-based ways to support their routines. Mushroom coffee, in particular, has become a popular swap for those wanting a gentler alternative to a strong espresso. Add in a wave of attention on social media and the growing availability of quality powders, and the rise makes sense. The main types and their benefits Each mushroom has its own character and its own traditional reputation. Here are the ones you are most likely to come across. Lion's mane is prized for its links to focus and mental clarity, which is why it is often described as a brain-friendly mushroom. Reishi has a calming reputation and is traditionally associated with relaxation and rest, making it a popular evening choice. Chaga is rich in antioxidants and has long been valued as a general wellbeing tonic. Cordyceps is the energising one, traditionally used to support stamina and physical performance, which makes it a favourite before exercise. Shiitake and turkey tail round out the group and are often included in blends for their broader nutritional profile. It is worth keeping expectations grounded. Much of the enthusiasm for these mushrooms comes from traditional use and early research, and the science is still developing. Mushroom powders are best seen as a pleasant, plant-based addition to a healthy lifestyle rather than a quick fix. Single mushrooms or a blend? One of the first choices you will face is whether to go for a single-mushroom powder or a blend. A single powder such as lion's mane lets you focus on one mushroom and its particular reputation, which is ideal if you have a specific reason for choosing it. A blend combines several mushrooms in one pot, giving you a broad mix in a single scoop and taking the guesswork out of it. Blends are a great place to start if you are new to the world of functional mushrooms. If you like the idea of a ready-made mix, our Organic Super Mushroom Blend brings together several of the most admired mushrooms, including reishi, chaga and shiitake, in one convenient organic powder. If you would rather focus on one, our Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom Powder is a pure, single-mushroom option to stir into your daily routine. How to use mushroom powder Mushroom powders are refreshingly easy to work into your day. The most popular way is to whisk a small amount into hot coffee or a mushroom latte, where the earthy flavour sits comfortably alongside the roast. They also blend well into smoothies, especially with cacao, banana and nut butter, which soften the savoury notes. You can stir a spoonful into porridge, soups and broths, or add it to hot chocolate for an evening drink. Start with the amount recommended on the pack, usually a small teaspoon, and build it into your routine gradually. A little goes a long way, and consistency tends to matter more than quantity. Choosing a good mushroom powder Quality varies, so a few pointers help. Look for organic powders with a clear list of the mushrooms used, ideally naming the specific varieties rather than a vague description. Check whether the powder is made from the fruiting body of the mushroom, which is generally considered the premium part. As with any supplement, if you are pregnant, taking medication or managing a health condition, it is sensible to check with a healthcare professional before adding mushroom powders to your routine. A simple way to branch out The rise of mushroom powders shows no sign of slowing, and it is easy to see why. They are versatile, plant-based and simple to use, offering a gentle way to bring something new into familiar drinks and dishes. Whether you start with an all-in-one blend or a single mushroom like lion's mane, a small daily scoop is an easy first step into a fascinating corner of the natural food world.

We’ve all heard the classic saying that ‘Breakfast is the most important meal of the day’, but is there any truth to it? Well, some of the clue to why it’s touted as being so essential is in the name itself: it’s the way to break our overnight fast. But is skipping it really the dietary faux pas we’ve been led to believe? Well, it turns out there’s many reasons why breakfast is such a significant mealtime. Many studies have shown that regularly eating a good breakfast is linked to better memory and focus, decreased ‘bad’ cholesterol, less risk of developing certain diseases, weight management and good health overall. So seems breakfast is rather beneficial, after all! To help you out, we’ve made a list of healthy breakfast foods, which are mostly vegan friendly, and thrown in a few recipes if you’re needing some inspiration. Let’s get cracking! Oats Having oats for breakfast is one of the best ways you can start your day. They’re one of the healthiest grains on the planet, and are packed full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Oats are also rich in fibre, which keeps you feeling satiated for longer, whilst also lowering blood sugar and insulin response. This is particularly important in the morning, so you don’t start to crave unhealthy snacks or overeat later in the day. Another great aspect of oats is that they’re easy to prepare and can be paired with basically anything. Make them sweet or savoury by including whatever toppings you heart desires. For a slightly different take on traditional oatmeal, have a look at our Fruit & Nut Overnight Oats. Muffins Muffins at first glance may not seem like the healthiest choice, however there’s still ways you can enjoy these baked goods for breakfast. So, no need to chase away the muffin man just yet! A lot of the ingredients in muffins can be swapped out for healthier alternatives. Instead of sugar think fruit, honey, peanut butter, or cacao. And substitute some of the flour for grains such as oats and quinoa. There are so many different types of healthy muffin recipes out there. One combination we think is delicious for breakfast is our Banana & Almond Muffins. If you’re in rush in the mornings, why not make a big batch and pop them in the freezer. Then, simply reheat them in the toaster oven in the mornings, so you’re breakfast ready. Vegan Scramble Prefer something savoury for your first meal of the day? Well look no further than a scramble. Traditionally this would be made with eggs, but for all our vegan and health conscious friends out there, the eggs can easily be replaced with a plant-based option. Two alternatives are chickpeas or tofu. Both are great sources of protein, whilst also being gluten free and vegan. Protein is an important staple of your diet as numerous studies have shown it increases metabolic health, builds muscle, and aids in weight loss. We’ve got your egg free breakfast covered with our Chickpea Scramble. Chickpeas also contain 8 of the 9 essential amino acids, which are structural components of protein that need to be acquired from the food you eat. Smoothie We all know how vital it is to get enough fruit and vegetables in our diets. They’re packed full of essential nutrients and antioxidants, plus, their fibre content helps keep your digestive system healthy and keeps you feeling full. Smoothies are the perfect way to incorporate some of your 5- a day into your breakfast. There are endless possibilites of ingredients to make your smoothie from, so why not get creative? We personally love this delicious Strawberry Chia Seed Smoothie, along with our heavenly Chocolate Protein Smoothie. Both great ways to get some extra protein in to your morning. Pancakes Pancakes are another breakfast staple that is usually considered unhealthy, but we’ve got your back so you can still keep flipping those delicious cakes! Pancakes can be made from a variety of Healthier Flour Alternatives which contain more nutritional benefits, as opposed to the standard all-purpose flour. If you’re looking to up your protein intake, you can choose a high protein flour such as soya or quinoa flour, alternatively add some protein powder to the mix. Protein is essential for healthy bones, skin, cartilage, and even keeping your hair strong and shiny. If you looking some pancake ideas, then look no further than our Gluten Free Big Boy Pancakes with Muscovado Treacle Syrup or Banana & Strawberry Pancakes Toast Another breakfast favourite! If you want to make this classic morning meal healthier, we recommend switching out white bread for loaves made with minimal ingredients, such as wholegrain, rye or sourdough. This will have less of an impact on your blood sugar levels and are generally lower in fat. If you’re a keen baker, why not try making your own. As to what you decide to put on the toast, well the options are countless. If you’re after a savoury option, we think avocados, tomatoes, roasted peppers, mushrooms, or beans are all highly nutritious and delicious choices. If you prefer your toast to be sweet why not check out our recipe for Vegan French Toast ft. Nooch Granola Granola is a breakfast staple, and for good reason. It’s a much healthier and nutritious choice than many of the popular sugary and calorie laden cereals. Just be aware that a lot of store bought versions of granola can be loaded with added sugars and preservatives, so we suggest mixing your own using oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. These ingredients are rich sources of iron, zinc, and magnesium, as well as B vitamins and vitamin E. You can either eat it as it is, with plant milk, or even sprinkled over yoghurt. For an on the go option, how about trying our Zesty Lemon Chia Seed Granola Bars.

As we saw during the onset of the pandemic, having a stocked pantry is not just something of a convenience, it can become quite essential at the drop of a hat. But of course, there are other advantages to food storage. The most enticing? The best pantry items last, on average, four months to a year without spoiling — meaning 1) you always have the building blocks of a health-conscious home-cooked meal and 2) you can say goodbye to impulsively ordering take-out because there’s nothing on-hand. If that sounds like something you’re into, here are the must-have items for a healthy, useful pantry that lasts. Pantry Essentials Nuts & Seeds Satisfying, wholesome and super for snacking, you don’t have to be a health nut (sorry — couldn’t resist) to enjoy this pantry staple. Eating more nuts has been linked to lower risk of obesity, according to a long-term study conducted by the online journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. Nuts and seeds (think: chia, flax and sunflower) are good sources of fibre and essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. For sweet and savoury mixes, top a green salad with walnuts and raisins (or cranberries, if raisins make you sour) or add sliced almonds and hazelnuts to a chilled cup of yoghurt or chia seed pudding. Naturally gluten- and grain-free, they’re convenient snacks for those with common food allergies (sans nut allergies, of course). Keep unopened packages for six months past their best-by dates. Dried Fruits Unlike their more finicky counterparts, the vegetable, fruits can be processed in a way that savours their flavour for months at a time. Although fruits are typically high in a wonderful assortment of vitamins and nutrients, water is removed during the drying process — meaning the natural sugars in the fruit are concentrated. So keep your eyes peeled when munching on these delicious snacks, it’s easy to overconsume them! Add them sparingly to morning oats, midday salads or nighttime parfaits. Store them in a dry place for up to one year. Ready to stock up on nuts, seeds and fruit? Head here to browse our plentiful blends. Grains Grains truly make the basis of most meals. You have your grains of rice — Arborio rice for a Risotto, Basmati rice for coconut curry — and your “wild card” grains such as Couscous for a hearty Morrocan meal. Next, you have your grain legumes: beans, lentils, peas, and peanuts. These are true vegan stars, creating the bulk of many amazing recipes from soup to vegan burger patties. And the best part? When choosing whole grains such as these, they are hefty plant-based protein sources. For example, black beans contain more than seven grams of protein per half a cup! So rest assured you’ll have protein stock that lasts for months without spoiling. Simply keep your grains in airtight containers. Check out our full guide to storing grains here. Flours No kitchen is complete without proper baking supplies. And while you may not be ready to recreate grandmother’s classic recipes, you’ll do well with a few types of flour on-hand. The trick is knowing which ones. While all-purpose white flour is good for, well, all purposes, wheat flour can replace it for a healthier option in many recipes such as pizza dough, homemade roux, zucchini bread, muffins and much more. For sweet treats such as cookies, cakes and pancakes, head for the naturally sweet, almost Marzipan-Esque, almond flour. Gluten-free and low-carb, it’s a must-have pantry addition for those moments you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. For bread making, turn to buckwheat, chickpea or organic white cassava flour. Many people prefer the latter for grain-free baking. Also try vegan-friendly, low-fat and delicious polenta. Made from dried maize, it’s a good source of fibre, protein and iron and is the perfect side for any protein or savoury veggie dish (such as mushrooms). When stored in a cool, dry place, flour will keep for at least one year. Sound good? Browse our selection of flours here. Cereals Oats are an awesome way to get energy-loving carbohydrates in the morning to keep you going all day long. Opt for the larger oats for slower absorption in the bloodstream, meaning no sugar crash later on. Turn to the finer-milled variety for porridge and smoothie additions. For those days you don’t feel like cooking, pre-packaged cereal and Muesli are great options. As they are typically mixes of oats, wheat-based items, dried fruit and seeds, everything inside is non-perishable. An even better idea? Combining dried and puffed cereals with honey toasted oats, rye flakes, nuts and your favourite sweet additions to create homemade muesli or granola bars! These items are good up to one year in a pantry, presuming they’re stored in an air-tight container; otherwise, you’re looking at stale cereal which, to be frank, is a poor way to start the morning. Dive into the Wholefood Earth cereal & flake options here! Minerals & Salts Every recipe calls for a pinch of salt. In addition to everyday table salt, you’ll want to stock up on cousin, Himalayan pink salt, which boasts less sodium and more minerals. For true salt lovers? Try coarse sea salt for sweet treats that pack a punch. Now, salt isn’t just for making recipes come alive. It’s also for setting your self-care routine off just right. Turn to ultra-relaxing Epsom salt to ease sore muscles and Israeli Dead Sea salt to nourish and help heal itchy, dry skin in the bath. Ready to stock up? Check out the salt & mineral collection here. Tinned Foods Maybe there’ve been one too many post-apocalyptic movies, but no pantry looks complete without tins abound. From hearty soups to baked beans to canned veggies and fish, they certainly are convenient and last, well, indefinitely! The problem with tinned items? “Foods are sealed and preserved by pressure cooking them at a very high temperature,” according to BBC News online. “Like regular cooking, this destroys some of the nutrients,” they add. Not to mention — salt, sugar and fat are sometimes added to make them taste better. When possible, opt for fresh veg and meats you can store in the fridge. Extra Pantry Essentials Extra Essentials Coconut Milk: Unlike dairy milk, coconut milk often comes in a non-perishable tin can. Use it for curry, full-fat soups and even Paleo-friendly frostings on delicious homemade sweets. Vinegar: The tart liquid, such as distilled white or apple cider, lasts indefinitely. Use them for dressings, marinades, and cooking meats. Pickled Items: For an added bite, try kimchi, pickled beets, or sauerkraut. They keep indefinitely until opened, at which point you’ll want to store in the fridge. Peanut Butter: A universal favourite in the spread and a commonly seen item amongst healthy pantry staples. Sauce: Don't forget your condiments. Soy sauce is a go-to for extra flavour in healthy dishes. Oils: Coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil and, for the millennials out there, avocado oil, are a great addition to a pantry. Apple Cider Vinegar: While it may not come up high on many ingredients lists, Apple Cider Vinegar has an extraordinary range of uses from baking fluffy cakes to relieving headaches. Now that you have a stocked pantry, you can create an assortment of affordable, healthy meals any day of the week — not to mention you’re prepared for the next time the supermarkets decide to clear out of real food for healthy eating! And may we add: bon appetit knowing you’re eating sustainably sourced, whole foods and none of the pre-packaged, frozen dinners. With a packed pantry like this, you’ll see how nutritious cooking can be convenient too. Did you hear the news? Wholefood Earth is launching a recipe blog filled with useful ideas for your perfectly stocked pantry. Get it straight to your inbox by signing up for our mailing list today!