Shiitake

Exotic mushrooms cultivated commercially and sold in stores or served in restaurants are safe to consume.

However, you should never eat wild or foraged mushrooms unless you are under the supervision of a certified mycologist or mushroom expert.

There are thousands of dangerous and inedible kinds that look like non-poisonous mushrooms.

Shiitake are used in a wide range of dishes. Although you may think you need to look for exotic mushroom recipes, you can add Shiitake to many of your favorite dishes.

With their earthy, smoky flavor, Shiitake mushrooms enhance bold, flavorful dishes. You can use them in stir-fries, pasta, soups, and sides or even toss them on a weeknight pizza.

Check out our recipe library for delicious mushroom inspiration.

This is a very common question about mushrooms.

It is not recommended to submerge mushrooms in water which can make the cap surface damp and slimy. Instead, to preserve the texture, wipe them off right before you are ready to use them. A Shiitake’s umbrella cap can be wiped off with a damp paper towel. 

Discover more tips for preparing and serving fresh fungi.

Remember selection, storage, and stems. 

When you purchase Shiitake, select those that are firm with a smooth, plump appearance. Avoid dried-out mushrooms as well as those that have a damp or slimy surface. Store them in their original package; once opened, move unused mushrooms to a paper bag. If the stem is tough, remove it and use it to enhance soups and stocks.

Mushrooms are gentle on the planet; growing them requires little water or energy and produces little carbon emissions.

Learn more about mushroom sustainability here.