Scientific name: Lentinula edodes
About Shiitake mushroom:
Shiitake mushroom is an edible mushroom and special category: fungus that grows decay in hardwood trees and they are widely grown to East Asia, Japan, Canada, Singapore, China and US. It is also called ‘black forest mushroom’, ‘golden oak mushroom’. Fresh and dried shiitake are served in miso soup and any vegetarian dish and simmered dishes with rich texture and smoky flavour. This mushroom typically grows all over world in natural environment or artificial substrate and also available in spring time. They also contain amino acid, lowering blood cholesterol levels and lipid linked to immune boosting and anti-cancer effects.
Description of shiitake mushroom:
Shiitake mushroom are small to medium in size and dark brown in color and grow between 5- 10 centimeters are attached with thin stems. There are also thin veil covering the gills. The light brown stem is smooth and fiberous. When it is cooked then we get smoky, savory and earthy flavour.
Storage of shiitake mushroom:
You do not have to wash the mushroom only clean with wet paper towel before using, you can trim the stem if they become dry. Store bulk mushroom in refrigerator wrapped with paper bag and they will stay fresh for 14 days in cool place.
Taste and use of shiitake mushroom:
Shiitake mushrooms are best favoured for cooked process like frying, boiling , steaming and grilling. They can be used in miso soup, pizza, stir fries with sauce and also good suited with spinach, chicken, green onions, potatoes, pasta, pork, lamb and red wine. The dried shiitakes have a savory and delicious flavour.
Nutrition values of mushrooms:
Shiitake mushroom contains vitamin A, B, C, D, calcium, Protein, iron, copper, zinc.
Nutrients in 4 dried shiitakes (15 grams)
- Calories 44
- Fibre 2 grams
- Protein 1 gram
- Copper 39% of RDI
- Zinc 4% of RDI
- Vitamin B6 7% of RDI
- Vitamin D 6% of RDI