Suggested uses

Basic prep

Storage & handling

Store in a dry, cool place.

Ingredients

Dried mushrooms.

Our dried Kibbled Shiitake Mushrooms capture the meaty, almost smoky flavor of fresh shiitakes. They're cultivated for us, then harvested, cleaned, sliced and dried before being further chopped into a fine (approximately 1/4-inch) dice.

Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) (sometimes called "Chinese Black Mushrooms" or "Forest Mushrooms") are among the most commonly eaten mushrooms in the world. Native to Asia, they are a versatile and affordable part of many traditional Chinese and Japanese dishes, in which they are used in either fresh or dried forms.

Shiitakes are known by their Japanese name, which is appropriate since Japan is the world leader in production of shiitakes. The name comes from a Japanese word meaning "oak fungus," as they are discovered most frequently growing at the base of Japanese oak conifers called "shii trees."

Many people believe that shiitake mushrooms are wild, because they are often included in "wild mushroom" mixes at the supermarket. However, they are actually the second most cultivated edible mushroom in the world, behind the common white button variety. Shiitake mushrooms have dark brown, broad, flat caps that curve down slightly at the edge toward the long, narrow stem. The gills underneath the cap are tan.

In many Asian countries, shiitake mushrooms are considered a symbol of longevity and health, and have been used medicinally for thousands of years. They are often served at Chinese celebrations, such as birthdays, weddings and Chinese New Year parties.

These umami-rich mushrooms have a hearty, meaty flesh and a rich, full-bodied, earthy flavor that lends it self to numerous cooking applications. Their deep flavor means they can stand up to other strong flavors. They are particularly good with ginger, soy, and chiles.