Shii-take

The Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) is a beneficial wood-rotting mushroom which occurs in Southeast Asia, mostly in China and Japan. It is a source of some specific types of glucans and of other positive substances. It is also cultivated and, thanks to a high production level, it ranks second as far as the production volumes of cultivated mushrooms are concerned. The sporocarps of this fungus have an unmistakeable fungal taste with a horseradish flavour and are slightly sweetish. The name of Shiitake derives from the Japanese language and its meaning is “a mushroom growing on shii” (shii is a tree of the genus Castanopsis from which the fungus grows). Shiitake has a quite unique distinct aroma and a natural spicy flavour. Fresh and dried shiitake mushrooms are frequently used in the cuisine of eastern Asia. They are often served in soups and as an ingredient in various cooked, fried and stewed meals in Japan. They are a frequent additive especially to vegetarian meals also in Chinese cookery.