Skip to content
header-shiitake-1

Shiitake Mushrooms

The popular specialty mushroom appearing on plates everywhere!
Curved white cut-off hero element

The Leader of the Specialty Mushroom Pack

Why do Shiitake regularly lead lists of exotic mushrooms? Close your eyes and think about your favorite stir-fry or pasta dish. We’ve elevated the flavor with delectable Shiitake mushrooms and you are ready for a bite. Imagine a savory aroma rising from your fork just before you place the bite in your mouth. Then notice the meaty-yet-buttery texture of the Shiitake just before your tastebuds explode with a rich, smoky, delectable flavor.

That’s why Shiitake is the leader of the pack. This gourmet mushroom is bursting with a rich umami flavor that makes it perfect for stir-fries, pasta, soups, sides, and more!

shiitake-mushrooms-sliced
Shiitake mushrooms

More Than Just a Fancy Mushroom

Although these exotic mushrooms magnify the flavor in the dishes you love, Shiitake mushroom benefits make them more than just a fancy mushroom trend.

Although you probably already know the amazing health benefits of mushrooms in general — including B vitamins, Potassium, Selenium, Copper, and Ergothioneine — each variety of mushrooms packs its own power in supporting your health.* 

Fresh Shiitake mushrooms offer 40% of the recommended daily intake of copper, which is known for keeping bones and nerves healthy.

In addition, Shiitake are known for their ability to support the immune system, offer strong cardiovascular support, and may protect against inflammation. These specialty mushrooms may potentially prevent and treat cancer, lower high cholesterol, and treat infections.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant or lactating, have a medical condition, or are on medications, please consult with your licensed healthcare provider before using nutritional supplements

Shiitake Mushrooms FAQs

Is it safe to eat exotic mushrooms like 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.

How are Shiitake mushrooms commonly used?

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.

How should I wash Shiitake mushrooms?

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.

What do I need to remember about cooking with Shiitake?

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.

Are Shiitake mushrooms sustainable?

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

Learn more about mushroom sustainability here.

shiitake-mushrooms-ramen