Dried Sliced Shi-itake 1 Lb.

Shiitake (Lentinus Edodes) is often called a wild mushroom; however it is only found cultivated. The origin of this mushroom is debated. Either the Chinese or the Japanese were the first to cultivate shiitake over 1200 years ago. Dried shiitake caps are dark brown on top, with tan gills underneath. The rim of the dried shiitakes curls down toward the stem. Shiitakes have a meaty flesh and a full bodied, bosky flavor. Shiitakes may also be referred to as Chinese black mushrooms or forest mushrooms.

common names for Shiitake mushrooms: Japanese mushroom, Black Forest mushroom, golden oak mushroom, oakwood mushroom.

Cooking Ideas

Shiitake mushrooms are traditionally added to miso soup. Healthy saute mushrooms with onions and garlic. Serve as a side dish or as a topping for chicken, beef, lamb or venison..

Health Benefits

• Shiitake mushrooms have long been recognized as a very good, non-animal food source of iron. But a recent preliminary study has determined that the bioavailability of iron from shiitake mushrooms may be even better than we thought.
• Shiitake mushrooms are an excellent source of three B vitamins (vitamins B2, B5 and B6); a very good source of one additional B vitamin (B2).
• They are also a very good source of six minerals (manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, copper and zinc); a very good source of dietary fiber; and a good source of protein, magnesium, and vitamin D (in the D2 form).
• The special combination of antioxidants found in shiitake mushrooms together with their highly flexible support for immune system function make them a natural candidate for providing us with protection from a variety of problems involving oxidative stress and immune function.
• Shiitake mushrooms are promoted to fight the development and progression of cancer and AIDS by boosting the body's immune system.

Directions on how to Rehydrate

To rehydrate or reconstitute dried mushrooms, place desired amount into a bowl covered with warm water and let dried mushrooms soak for 30 minutes. After the 30 minutes have gone by, gently lift the mushrooms out of the water using a strainer. The mushrooms should be clean, plumped and ready to use.

How to Store

It is very important that dried mushrooms are stored properly to insure long term and maximum freshness. Place the mushrooms into either a plastic or glass container with a tight fitting lid. Our first recommendation, though, is freezing or storing in a refrigerator or freezer. Place the dried mushrooms in a clean, tight sealing freezer bag. The reason for maximum cold storage is because heat and moisture are the greatest enemies. The mushrooms should keep well for six months to a year.