Another great option is tempeh. Like tofu, it’s high in protein and has a similar texture to mushrooms. Not only have the active compounds in shiitake mushrooms been linked to inhibiting tumor growth in multiple types of cancer butthey may also induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancerous cells without damaging the healthy cells around it. This is because of the presence of a polysaccharide called lentinan in them. [8] Improve Digestion Chang TS; Hayes WA. (2013). The Biology and Cultivation of Edible Mushrooms. Elsevier Science. p.470. ISBN 978-1-4832-7114-9. The shiitake (alternate form shitake) ( / ʃ ɪ ˈ t ɑː k eɪ, ˌ ʃ iː ɪ-, - k i/; [1] Japanese: [ɕiꜜːtake] ⓘ Lentinula edodes) is an edible mushroom native to East Asia, which is cultivated and consumed around the globe. It is considered a medicinal mushroom in some forms of traditional medicine. [ citation needed] Taxonomy [ edit ]

During the sun-dried process of Shitake mushrooms, they undergo a chemical breakdown to create basic amino acids (such as glutamate), intensifying the umami flavor. Hérault M; Waton J; Bursztejn AC; Schmutz JL; Barbaud A. (2010). "Shiitake dermatitis now occurs in France". Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie. 137 (4): 290–3. doi: 10.1016/j.annder.2010.02.007. PMID 20417363. Your body needs vitamin D to build strong bones, yet very few foods contain this important nutrient. Shiitake are low in calories. They also offer good amounts of fiber, as well as B vitamins and some minerals. Instant Cream of Mushroom Soup Mix: Whip up your own instant cream of mushroom soup mix to make a comforting starter in seconds, or use it for greater culinary creations. It’s an indispensable pantry staple that you’ll want on hand at all times.

Shiitake mushrooms are extremely versatile and can be added to soups, stews, salads, vegetable dishes, ragouts, meat dishes, omelets, and stir-fries. The flavor is typically described as woody or earthy, which limitstheir use in culinary applications but savory dishes can often benefit from the mushroom’s hearty texture.

kho or nam huong kho by southern and northern Viet speakers, respectively. The mushrooms in dried form are most often used in my house so we drop the “kho” (dried) when we refer to them. Shiitake mushrooms are typically added during the cooking process. I’ve never eaten them raw. ( Have you?) Shiitake mushrooms contain eritadenine, a compound known to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. They also contain beta-glucans that reduce inflammation and help prevent the intestines from absorbing cholesterol. There is an incredible amount of antioxidant compounds in shiitake mushrooms that provide an excellent defense against free radicals and oxidative stress throughout the body. These help in protecting the skin from signs of aging such as wrinkles, while also reducing the appearance of scars and blemishes and promoting a healthy glow to the skin. With a good amount of selenium, these mushrooms have also been called a natural acne treatment, as deficiencies in this mineral are often linked to acne symptoms. [3] Help in Weight Loss Ko JA; Lee BH; Lee JS; Park HJ. (2008). "Effect of UV-B exposure on the concentration of vitamin D2 in sliced shiitake mushroom ( Lentinus edodes) and white button mushroom ( Agaricus bisporus)". J Agric Food Chem. 50 (10): 3671–3674. doi: 10.1021/jf073398s. PMID 18442245.When purchasing shiitake mushrooms, look for ones that have firm caps with no signs of bruising or drying out. Shiitake Mushrooms Nutritional Value a b Leatham GF. (1982). "Cultivation of shiitake, the Japanese forest mushroom, on logs: A potential industry for the United States" (PDF). Forest Products Journal. 32 (8): 29–35. Archived from the original (PDF) on 3 July 2011 . Retrieved 21 July 2010. Stamets, P. (2000). Growing Gourmet and Medicinal Mushrooms (3rded.). Berkeley, California: Ten Speed Press. p.260. ISBN 978-1-58008-175-7.

It is common for people not to clean their soaked mushrooms as they're under the assumption it will wash the flavor out. Others claim that you must rinse mushrooms to remove residual grit.Perfect for vegetarians cooks, this recipe is a super easy store cupboard supper. All the main ingredients are dried, yet this doesn’t take away from the full, delicious flavour. A great way to ease yourself into cooking with dried mushrooms. This process can be replicated at home quite easily, given a stretch of sunny days. Begin by removing the stems from the shiitake mushrooms. Place them in a colander or any perforated surface, positioning the underside of the umbrella upwards to maximize sun exposure. These mushrooms have a strong, earthy flavor and are often used as a meat substitute in vegan or vegetarian dishes. Both are great for soups, casseroles, and braising. In addition to imparting a flavor that is savory and meaty texture, dried mushrooms are rich in umami. 1 Getting rid of grit or sand