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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.
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.
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.
Health benefits and
concerns for vegetables
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other
vegetables. Read about health benefits and concerns
for vegetables for a full description.
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The information presented in Foodnotes 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. Information expires March 2005.