We ferment in small -batches, naturally culturing food, slowly with minimal intervention. Our focus has always been to source clean , organic and local ingredients and letting the natural process of a slow wild ferment to provide the best nature has to offer. Free from synthetic starter cultures or other industry tricks to speed the rate of ferments makes us unique bringing ancient and traditional processes into an overly processed world.
The inception of Hipster Lettuce is a tale of culinary camaraderie, personal passion, and a commitment to health.
The Name's Origin
In the bustling environment of our kitchen, my friend Mike and I often collaborated with our fellow chef, Bill. Bill had a penchant for enhancing his vegetarian dishes with a generous sprinkle of arugula. One day, amused by this routine, Mike quipped, "Bill and his hipster lettuce!" The term struck a chord with me, sparking laughter and the realization that "Hipster Lettuce" would make an exceptional brand name.
Delving deeper into branding, I pondered the essence of hipster culture: revitalizing the old and presenting it as new, with a bespoke touch. This philosophy resonated with our mission to reintroduce traditional fermentation practices to the modern palate. Embracing the hipster affinity for flannel, we incorporated a plaid background into our label design, symbolizing authenticity and a touch of nostalgia.
A Journey into Fermentation
My culinary journey has always been intertwined with fermentation. I consistently incorporated fermented products into my menus to infuse dishes with depth, umami, and a bright, sour balance. This practice not only elevated flavors but also honored time-tested preservation methods.
A Personal Mission
The impetus to establish Hipster Lettuce stemmed from a deeply personal experience. The loss of my uncle to dementia profoundly affected me, igniting concerns about cognitive health and the desire to take proactive measures. Immersing myself in research on neurodegenerative diseases, I discovered compelling evidence linking fermented foods to brain health. Studies suggest that daily consumption of fermented foods and beverages may have neuroprotective effects and slow cognitive decline in older adults. frontiersin.org
Motivated by these findings, I embarked on a mission to craft superior fermented products. Hipster Lettuce was born from the aspiration to create flavorful, health-promoting foods that support cognitive vitality. Our offerings are a fusion of culinary artistry and a dedication to well-being, aiming to enrich both the palate and the mind.
Through Hipster Lettuce, we invite you to savor the benefits of traditional fermentation, reimagined for today's discerning consumers.