Latin name: Lentinus edodes
General
The Shiitake originates in Japan, but is now also cultivated in abundance in the Netherlands. Dutch and Japanese Shii-Take are available all year round. In Japan the Shiitake is cultivated on the trunks of trees. In the Netherlands it grows on a mixture of oak sawdust, wheat straw and water.
Description
The Shiitake is a high-protein mushroom with a round, brown, flat cap and a white or brown stem with cream-coloured gills. The diameter of the cap varies from 3 to 10 cm. The flesh is firm, white and highly aromatic.
Storage and shelf life
Fresh Shiitake are best stored in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator where they will keep for 1 to 2 weeks.
Flavour and use
The Shiitake is an authentic oriental mushroom, so it is perfect for use in soups and noodle dishes.