Part of the edible fungi family, shiitakes are rich in nutrients.
They’re not quite as large as portobello mushrooms but almost as meaty.
Shiitakes are known for their savory, smoky flavor and woodsy aroma.
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These versatile mushrooms complement other flavors in stir-fries, sauces, soups, and side dishes.
Kilito Chan / Getty Images
5 Health Benefits of Mushrooms
Mushrooms are functional foods rich inmicro- andmacronutrients.
Shiitake mushrooms provide a good portion of your daily need forselenium.
Selenium is a trace mineral that helps protect against free radicals and infection.
They’re also a good source of vitaminsB2,B3, B6,zinc, andmanganese.
They start with a cream-colored stem, but larger shiitakes usually have a brown stem.
To prevent spoilage, don’t wash mushrooms until you’re ready to use them.
Bits of dirt can get caught in the gills, but you’ll want to use a delicate touch.
Remove the stems before cleaning.
Wipe the mushrooms with a damp paper towel.
Alternatively, you’re free to rinse them under running water individually or in a colander.
Gently dry with a paper towel.
The stems are edible but very fibrous.
The five basictastesensations are bitter, sour, sweet, salty, and umami.
Umami is a savory taste derived from certain proteins and nucleotides.
Umami doesn’t just enhance flavor; it boosts your appetite and satisfies you.
It also stimulates salivary secretions.
While you’ve got the option to eat raw shiitake mushrooms, they’re usually served cooked.
Raw or undercooked shiitake mushrooms can cause a rash called shiitake mushroomdermatitisor flagellate dermatitis.
It’s a rare reaction to a bioactive component called lentinan, which decomposes when you heat it.
Mushrooms have a high water content, so they’ll cook down quite a bit.
Mushrooms are good for your heart, gut, and immune system.
Mushrooms may also help prevent chronic diseases, such as cancer and diabetes.
Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health.Pantothenic acid.
Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health.Selenium.
Oregon State University Extension Service.Nontimber forest products for small woodland owners: shiitake mushrooms.
Chan School of Public Health.Mushrooms.
U.S. Food & Drug Administration.Questions and answers on dietary supplements.
