Shiitake Mushrooms
Also indexed as: Black Forest Mushrooms, Oakwood Mushrooms
The shiitake mushroom is considered the finest edible mushroom in
Asia.
The shiitake mushroom, also known as the golden oak mushroom, the black forest mushroom,
and the oakwood mushroom, is considered to be the finest edible mushroom in Asia, where it has
been used for over 2,000 years. Shiitake mushrooms are cultivated on logs, dead tree trunks,
and sawdust. Shiitakes range in color from tan to dark brown, and have broad, umbrella-shaped
caps, wide-open veils, and tan gills. Shiitake caps have a soft, spongy texture. When cooked,
these mushrooms have a rich, smoky flavor and a meat-like texture.
Varieties
Shiitake mushroom are sold fresh and dried.
Buying and storing tips
When buying fresh shiitake mushrooms, choose mushrooms with firm, spongy caps and small
stems. Fresh shiitake mushrooms keep for up to 14 days when stored in the refrigerator in a
paper bag. Store dried shiitakes in a cool, dry place.
Availability
Shiitake are available year-round in many grocery stores.
Preparation, uses, and tips
Before using fresh shiitakes, tear off the fibrous stems, and clean the mushrooms carefully
with a damp cloth or paper towel. The mushrooms can also be rinsed briefly, but do not allow
them to soak as they will swell with water. Dried shiitakes should be reconstituted in warm
water for approximately one hour. Once they are reconstituted, chop off the stems. Use the
soaking water and stems to make soup stock.
Cooking brings out the distinct flavor of shiitakes. Sauté or fry them in oil for 5 to
7 minutes; or cook them with a small amount of liquid in a tightly covered pan for 15 minutes.
Once cooked, add them to a pasta recipe, rice dish, soup, sauce, or stir-fry.
Nutritional Highlights
Shiitake mushroom, 4 mushrooms (cooked)
Calories: 40
Protein: 1.12g
Carbohydrate: 10.3g
Total Fat: 0.16g
Fiber: 1.5g
*Excellent source of: Selenium (17.8mcg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular
nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good
source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily
Value.
The information presented in this website is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of U.S. registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications.
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