shiitake

Shiitake, or Lentinula edodes, is an edible mushroom that grows in groups on the decaying wood of deciduous trees. When cooked, these mushrooms have a savory, earthy umami flavor. They are sold both fresh and dried, dried shiitakes can be reconstituted in water. Shiitake are used as a base in vegan dashi, to flavor simmered and steamed dishes. They are also used in soups, or sauteed with other vegetables. Rarely, consumption of raw or slightly cooked shiitake mushrooms may cause an allergic reaction called shiitake dermatitis. They will keep 1-2 weeks when stored in a paper bag in the refrigerator.