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The shiitake mushroom is a favorite of those who prefer a meaty, rich-flavored mushroom. Originating from Asian countries, primarily Japan and Korea, this variety was once gathered mainly in the wild but is now cultivated. Shiitake mushrooms are large in size and have an earthy flavor that is typical of wild mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms go well in meat dishes, soups, sauces and gravies, or can be prepared as a side dish. Because they are so rich and flavorful, they can also be used as a substitute for meat. They can also be cooked using a variety of methods to bring out their naturally good flavor. Learning how to prepare shitake mushrooms will give you the basics to create many dishes using this hearty variety of mushroom.

  1. Watermark wikiHow to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms
    [1]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms
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    • If the stems are tender, you don't have to cut them away. They can be used along with the caps of the mushrooms for added flavor. [3]
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms
    • Depending on the recipe and the method you decide to use in shiitake mushroom preparation, you can slice them, chop them into pieces, or even use them whole. Slices go well for side dishes, while smaller pieces are best in soups, stuffings or sauces.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms
    • Use woody herbs such as rosemary and sage to infuse mushrooms with flavor.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms
    [4]
    • You can grill them by brushing them with olive oil and putting them on the grill for about 5 to 10 minutes. Sauté them with butter, salt and pepper for 4 to 5 minutes in a hot skillet. [5] Try roasting them sliced or whole in the oven for about 15 minutes after basting them with oil. It's a good idea to sautée them with a bit of diced onions and garlic cloves.
    • If you plan to prepare shiitake mushrooms by using them in a recipe such as stuffed mushroom caps, mushroom stuffing, or mushroom gravy, closely follow the recipe of your choice.
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Prepare Shiitake Mushrooms
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  • Question
    Can I boil them and make a tea?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you may boil them and make a tea from the water.
  • Question
    Can I use them in an omelet?
    Community Answer
    Of course. You can use any type of mushroom in an omelet.
  • Question
    Can I put them in soup?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can put them into the soup when it's simmering for about 3 minutes.
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      Tips

      • Dried shiitake needs to be soaked for several hours, not just 30 mins, and whole dried mushrooms are a lot more tender than dried sliced mushrooms.
      • Try a variety of ways to cook shitake mushrooms, including grilling, roasting and microwaving. Also, try using them in a variety of recipes that call for mushrooms. Their rich flavor will enhance mushroom recipes.
      • When cooking shiitake mushrooms, use salt, pepper, herbs and spices as desired. The rich flavor of these mushrooms is also great with no added seasonings.
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      Warnings

      • Avoid purchasing shiitake mushrooms that have discoloration or blotchy brown spots as they may not be fresh. Also avoid those that have a slimy texture.
      • Do not soak fresh shiitake mushrooms. They are porous, and exposing them to water too long will cause them to become soggy.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Shiitake mushrooms
      • Paper towel or kitchen towel
      • Knife
      • Desired herbs and spices
      • Salt and pepper
      • Butter or oil


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      Reader Success Stories

      • Philip Pattengill

        Oct 18, 2016

        "Thank you. I just got a package of fresh golden oak shitake and wondered if cooking would differ from traditional ..." more
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